Flutes are archaic woodwinds and among the oldest known instruments, as they had already been used and most likely even invented by the valar themselves.
Known words for or types of flutes were:
- Drûghu flute:Shiki
- Dwarven flute:Rakh
- Elven flutes:Simpa, Simpina, Thibin, Thimli, Tifin
- Orc-flute:Rosh
Other cultures known to have used flutes include the easterlings, Men of Eriador, Haradrim, northmen of Rhovanion, Númenoreans and hobbits.