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Wānanga
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Māori Musical InstrumentsMusic is an integral part of Māori life. Traditional musical instruments are often beautiful carvings as well as fulfilling a musical function. Trumpet - Pūkaea are carved wooden trumpets between 60 and 200cm long. Construction is of two hollowed pieces of wood bound together with fine forest vine. In the hands of a skilled player, the pūkaea is capable of producing an extraordinary and far-reaching call. Chiefly Flute - A koauau is a type of Māori flute. It has three holes on the top and one underneath and is able to produce several notes. In earlier times, only chiefs possessed these instruments and when they were not being played they were worn by the owner suspended from the neck. Nose Flute - The nguru is a nose flute and blown from the hole in its small curved end. Rather than thrust into the nostril, the nguru is held just below, while the other nostril is closed with the thumb. Two holes on the upper side and another below and close to the small end enable an expert to produce some haunting notes.
Taonga Treasure Gallery - Here at Te Puia we offer you the chance to take away traditional Māori carvings, beautiful handcrafted pieces made at the carving school. We also accept carving commissions. |
