The key of a pentatonic flute is based on the lowest note of your flute, played with all holes closed. It determines the pitch of the flute (high or low sound), the overall length of your flute, and its price.
High, midtone, low and bass flutes
First and most important when buying a flute is the sound it makes. Do you want a high sounding flute, a midtone, or maybe you prefer a deeper, lower sounding instrument?
In the table below are the most common flute keys from highest sounding flute (Key of High A) to lowest (Key of Bass B):
| High | Midtone | Low | Bass | |||||
| Key of A | Key of G | Key of F# | Key of F | Key of E | Key of D | Key of C# | Key of C | Key of B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Many prefer the sound of lower sounding flutes. But if a flute is lower, it will be larger in both length and diameter, making them more difficult to start on. On top of that, they come with a higher price tag (for price references check out my flute store).
First and most important when buying a flute is the sound it makes. Do you want a high sounding flute, a midtone, or maybe you prefer a deeper, lower sounding instrument?
In the table below are the most common flute keys from highest sounding flute (Key of High A) to lowest (Key of Bass B):
| High | |||
| Key of A | |||
| Midtone | Key of G | ||
| Key of F# | |||
| Low | Key of F | ||
| Key of E | |||
| Bass | Key of D | ||
| Key of C# | |||
| Key of C | |||
| Key of B | |||
Many prefer the sound of lower sounding flutes. But if a flute is lower, it will be larger in both length and diameter, making them more difficult to start on. On top of that, they come with a higher price tag (for price references check out my flute store).
Best key for beginners?
My essential flutes are perfect for beginners. They are the best option for your budget, while still having professional sound quality and easy playing comfort. These keys also combine well with other scales and instruments.
Your best options are "key of High A", "Key of Midtone G" and "Key of Midtone F#" because these are the most accessible for everyone due to the relatively small/medium size. If your flute is lower (and therefore longer and wider) finger holes will be wider and positioned further from each other, making them more difficult to play.
In case you have normal or large-sized hands, lower flutes can also be a beginner option. But, also breath control is a little more sensitive on lower/bigger flutes so you might need some extra patience.
If you already have some experience playing the flute, you are more than likely able to play any of my lower flutes without any trouble.
