The Irish flute is a traditional wooden flute based on the old simple-system design — the kind that predates modern concert flutes. Back in the 19th century, before Theobald Boehm revolutionized flute mechanics, these conical-bore flutes were widely used in classical music.
As newer metal flutes took over orchestras, traditional musicians adopted the simpler wooden versions — and that’s what evolved into what we now call the Irish flute.
Today, Irish flutes are usually made from African Blackwood, Cocobolo, or Cocuswood, though modern materials like Delrin and PVC are also used. You’ll find everything from keyless flutes to those with up to 13 keys, but most traditional Irish music can be played on a keyless six-hole flute.
Most Irish flutes are in concert pitch (key of D), same as the standard tin whistle. So when you cover all six holes, you’re playing a D — just an octave lower than on a tin whistle. That’s why some folks call them “D flutes” or “concert flutes,” even though some keyed models can go down to C or C#.
Irish Flute vs Tin Whistle: What’s the Difference?
Both are diatonic, staples of Irish trad music and use the same fingering, however, the Irish flute and tin whistle are pretty different in multiple areas:
Playing Style:
- Tin whistle is end-blown, like a recorder also known as a fipple flute
- Irish flute is side-blown, using an embouchure hole, similar to a modern concert flute
Material:
- Tin whistles are usually made of brass or nickel with a plastic mouthpiece
- Irish flutes are made using wood or the modern alternative Delrin
Learning Curve:
- Tin whistle is beginner-friendly with a fixed mouthpiece, easier to start with
- Irish flute needs embouchure control, so it takes more practice but gives better control over tone
Tone & Range:
- Tin whistle is bright, sharp, and an octave higher
- Flute has a richer, deeper sound
Flutes (like whistles) come in keys like A, G, F, C, and Bb. Just note — lower-pitched flutes (like Bb) get massive, while small flutes in high pitch like Bb flutes which play an octave higher are usually fifes, and tiny D flutes are called piccolos.
Most people start their musical journey with the tin whistle because it’s cheap and easy to learn. But once you’re ready to explore a richer sound and more expressive playing, the Irish flute is a natural next step. If you're a tin whistle player looking to make the jump to an Irish Flute, you can check out our Beginner Flute along with our 8 Key Professional Flute.