Quena



A South American folk instrument from the Andes mountains (Bolivia and Peru). Similar to a flute, it is made out of cane, 25 to 50 cm. long with five or six finger holes and a thumb hole. A notch in the upper rim allows the performer to blow across the sharp edge to create the sound. It is commonly heard as a solo instrument and in ensembles. Pre-Columbian versions have been found dating back to 900 B.C. and were made of bone and clay.
 

Quena

Quena

Photo courtesy of Lark In The Morning

 


More about instruments.
Dictionary Home