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 uesed 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 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. Their text is enhanced by numerous photographs of important historic flutes.

John Solum has performed as flute soloist and chamber music player in thirty-seven countries. His discography includes over thirty works for flute and reflects his interest in both modern and early flutes. He is co-director of the Connecticut Early Music Festival and has taught at Vassar College, Oberlin College Conservatory, and Indiana University.

Anne Smith, active as a performing musician, teaches the Renaissance flute and recorder at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in Basle, Switzerland. (Chapter 2 The Renaissance Flute is written by Ms. Smith.)