Irish Flute vs Bansuri – What is the Difference?

Both the Irish flute and the Bansuri are what is called “simple system flutes”.

In most cases they both have 6 open holes without any keys as well. So what are the differences?

Well, there are several differences that even if subtle, makes a great difference to the sound, character and even the way you play these instruments. Let’s have a look at the main differences:

Irish Flute vs Bansuri – Main Differences

1. The Bansuri has a cylindrical bore (body).
2. The Irish Flute has a tapered bore (getting narrower).
3. The Bansuri has big tone holes, and hole spacing.
4. The Irish Flute has fairly small tone holes, closer together.
5. The Bansuri is made of bamboo.
6. The Irish Flute is made of thicker wood.

Overall the sound of the bansuri is airy, open and brighter. While the Irish flute is darker.

The big tone holes on the bansuri also favors expressive techniques like tone-bending and legato. While the Irish flute excels at faster playing and decorations like taps, cuts and finger vibrato.