Open-hole vs. Closed-hole on Flute

Hello all. Brian here. One of the most common questions flute students ask me is "Does an open-hole flute sound better than a closed-hole flute?" I have tended to assume that since almost all professional flutists prefer the open-hole, it must be the better of the two choices. But why? As it turns out, the answer is not so simple. From a purely sonic point of view, there is no difference between the two. As long as the tone holes are covered completely when pushing keys, both styles of flutes will sound the same, all other things being equal. Fine, but how to explain the preference of professional players? Well, the open-hole design offers two advantages. Firstly, open-hole flutes require good hand position: fingers must be relaxed and kept reasonably close to the keys so that the tips are centered on the holes. If any air escapes, a bad tone will result. Secondly, the open-hole design is more commonly used in altering or "shading" notes; i.e. for bending notes, quarter tones, glissandos and the like. It should be noted that due to the preference of professionals, high-end flutes tend to be open-holed. An expensive, meticulously crafted instrument will have an overall better sound than a student model. 

There is a jazz flutist whom I've recently discovered on YouTube: Elena Pinderhughes. She is astounding. Check her out on YouTube. Search under Christian Scott Quintet. She solos on the tunes "Diaspora" and "The Last Chieftain". Enjoy.

Written by Brian K. (one of the instructors at Bothell Music Lessons)