While metal flutes are the most popular, wooden flutes have some advantages, which is why some musicians prefer them. Wooden flutes, for example, are known for producing a richer, more powerful sound than metal flutes, making them particularly popular for playing folk music. Furthermore, because they are uncommon, those who choose this instrument are likely to produce a one-of-a-kind sound. There are some disadvantages to this type of flute, such as the fact that it requires more power to play, but this can be mitigated thinning out the wood slightly.
The sound of a wooden flute is more solid than that of a metal flute, and it often has an earthy tone to it. As a result, traditional folk music is usually more appropriate than concert orchestras. When a powerful sound is preferred over a wide range, the wooden flute may be the best option. The resulting sound is often one-of-a-kind, which helps the musician stand out while performing.
Another advantage of wooden flutes is that they are more difficult to come than metal flutes. This makes them appealing to collectors of unusual instruments, as they can be a nice addition to any collection. This is especially true of flutes made of cleaved wood rather than sawed wood, because cleaving the wood removes defects and makes the material less likely to crack in the future. Flutes made from cleaved wood are less common and more expensive, but they last longer than those made from logs.
One of the most significant disadvantages of the wooden flute is that it requires more muscle to blow into it than a metal flute. This means that musicians must exert more effort when playing, which causes them to tire more quickly and limit their ability to play the instrument for long periods of time. Furthermore, unlike a metal flute, they are unable to produce a light, airy sound because they must blow hard into the flute in order to produce any music at all. Wooden flutes with thinner bodies are available, and musicians can use less energy when playing this instrument. This might be the best option for those who want the earthy sound of the wooden flute without getting tired of it quickly during songs.