With the growth of interest in recent years in the use of period instruments in recordings and professional and amateur performances, the early flute has experienced a remarkable revival. This is the first book in modern times to deal exclusively with the transverse flute in the Renaissance, Baroque, and Classical eras, following it from 1500 until the early nineteenth century. Advice is given on acquiring instruments and their care and maintenance. Additional chapters guide the reader to relevant sources about techniques and style, recommend repertoire, and give general advice to the modern player. The text is enhanced by numerous illustrations of important historic flutes.