Flutes date back to ancient civilizations and have been made of wood or metal. Early flutes, such as recorders, are played pointing forward like the clarinet. The transverse flute, the type played in band, is played to the side. Theobald Boehm designed the modern transverse flute. His design allowed for better sound and intonation. The flute family includes the C Flute (the one you will play), Piccolo, Alto and Bass Flutes. The flute is the highest sounding instrument of the band. Flute is normally rented or purchased from outside the band program.
SDF: 3
The flute is a very popular instrument to play. For that reason, most colleges and universities do not have to actively recruit flutists. Large scholarships are rarely given. A concert band of 75 will typically use 8 to 10 flutists.