The story of the flute in the musical life of Europe and North America from the 12th century to the 21st. It seeks to illustrate the relationship that has bound the instrument, its music, and performance technique together through eight centuries of shifting musical tastes and practices. In a comprehensive account of the flute's development, Powell takes account of modern research: on military flutes and fifes of the 15th century; the Renaissance consort flute; baroque and classical instruments; mechanically-advanced 19th-century designs by Theobald Boehm and others; and further innovations that led to the modern flute. All these transformations are related to revolutions in playing style and repertoire, in the lives of flute players and makers, and in uses of the instrument to play military, religious, consort, solo, chamber, opera, symphony, jazz, popular and flute band music. The role of amateur flutists receives consideration alongside the influence of famous players and teachers. This guide to the heritage of the flute should be of interest to both those who play the flute and those who love its music.