Sifflöte
A high-sounding open flute stop of the organ, usually 1 or 2 foot, of wide scale.
What it means
The Sifflöte is a high-sounding, open flute stop of the organ with a wide scale. It usually stands at 1- or 2-foot pitch and so sounds far above the organ’s fundamental pitch level.
The name derives from French “siffler” (“to whistle,” “to hiss”); older sources show many spellings such as Sifflöt or Zifflöt.
Musical use
Because of its bright, slightly whistling timbre, the Sifflöte serves to brighten the full organ or as a high solo stop combined with foundation stops.
As a stop it is rare in the history of organ building and was regarded as obsolete in the nineteenth century. Today it is found mainly in historical or historically inspired organs.
The Sifflöte should be distinguished from the Hohlflöte, which stands at a lower pitch and sounds softer, and from the principal, which forms the organ’s stronger foundation color.
Performance practice
Use the Sifflöte sparingly, since its high sound can quickly become shrill. Combine it with flute or principal stops of lower pitch so the overall sound stays well supported.