Medieval flute?

Question

You know when you see movies set in medieval times or a documentary you can hear a single flute or whistle playing in the background. What's it called , what's it made of and where can i get it?

Answer 1

It's quite hard to tell not knowing what it is you're talking about exactly. If it IS a flute, then chances are it's called exactly that - a flute, or at least a medieval flute. However, mediaeval instruments were quite different to flutes today - they were made of wood and had no keys, only holes. The tuning was also different - being tuned to a different set of intervals and often tuned to different modes than the modern natural mode.

Just as likely is the similar sounding recorder - these were very popular instruments until the 17th century. The Brandenburg concerto by Bach used recorders instead of flutes. A medieval recorder is largely the same as a modern one - except of course made of wood.

You could buy such instruments by looking for sites on the marvelous internet, look for medieval flute/recorder and I'm sure you'll find something.

Answer 2

Chances are it is a pennywhistle. You should be able to find one at most music shops.