The Concert Flute

Size: About 67cms - it depends on the footjoint and whether they have a B joint or a C joint

Shape: It has 3 sections - the headjoint, the body and the footjoint.

Pitch: Usually in C, range is over 3 octaves - middle C upwards

Sound: Can be high and penetrating, or low and spooky. Can be happy or sad - is quite mellow in the lower registers.

Other: It is used as a solo instrument as well as in orchestras, wind bands and flute choirs.

The Piccolo

Size: About 33cm long - roughly half the size of the Concert Flute

Shape: Unlike the flute, the Piccolo has only two sections - the Head and the Body.

Pitch: The Piccolo plays an octave higher than the Flute, but because it doesn't have a footjoint can only go as low as D.

Sound: Being the smallest and highest member of the Flute Family, the sound is very penetrating.

Other: The piccolo first became popular about 200 years ago. Now it regularly used in orchestras, wind bands and flute choirs.

The Alto Flute

Size: About 86cm long.

Shape: Very similar to the concert flute - just longer. Sometimes it has a curly headjoint (as above) to help reach the keys.

Pitch: It is tuned a 4th lower than the concert flute.

Sound: Quieter and more mellow than the concert flute.

Other: The alto flute is a transposing instrument. When it plays the sound comes out a 4th lower than the notes on the page.

The Bass Flute

The Contra Bass Flute

see a photo at Carluke Primrose Flute Band Web Site

but you may have to search for it.

The Sub Contra Bass Flute

see a photo at Yahoo! Groups Flute Pastels and follow the Photos Link

Or have a look at this URL

http://www.flute-net.com/flute-info/articles/double-contra.htm