There are two types of flutes in the world: open hole flutes, and flutes with keys/pads.
Of course, the keyed flutes give you more agility to be able to play faster phrases without getting squeeks or out of tune notes. However, in this article I am going to give you my arguments why I strongly believe open hole flutes are simply: better! =)
Why Open Hole Flutes are Better
- You can perform true legato (slides)
- You can do expressive note bends
- You can add finger vibrato
- You can play microtones
- You get more feeling from the air flow
There are open hole versions of concert flutes (Boehm flute) which have keys, but some open holes on a few keys. But I would argue 100% open hole flutes are the best for the expressive power I mention above.
I play a whole range of flutes myself, and I feel more connected to the instrument if it is simply a “tube with open holes” instead of any keys or pads to press.