C flute called soprano flute?

[PJFlutist]

When did the terminology change? I've only seen this used recently in reference to Gemeinhardt flutes. My understanding was that the smaller, Eb flute was the "soprano" flute. Has that changed? And why? I've been playing flute for a while and have just run across this curiosity while searching for an Eb soprano flute.

Perhaps because the alto flute is the next step lower than the C flute; so the C flute is now the "soprano" flute?

[isaiahwu]

Hello!

I believe that C flute does refer to the standard soprano flute because it is a C instrument. Do not be confused by a C footjoint in regards to a specific flute model.

Isaiah Wu