With the growing interest in recent years in the use of period instruments for recordings, live professional performances, and amateur music-making, the old-style transverse flutes are experiencing a remarkable comeback. The Early Flute is the first book in modern times to deal exclusively with the flutes used in the Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical eras. The book details the history of the transverse flute from 1500 until the early nineteenth century. Advice is given on acquiring instruments and on their care and maintenance. Additional chapters guide the reader to sources about relevant technique and style, recommend repertoire, and give general advice to the modern player. The text is enhanced by numerous photographs of important historic flutes.