Flute (koauau)
Production date
20th Century
Country
New Zealand
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Object detail
Description
Aerophones-Blow hole-End-blown flutes. Register description: Flute-end blown-wood. KOAUAU. Three fingerholes, carved designs, finger holes edged with shell.
Classification
MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS Wind flute
INDIGENOUS CULTURES
INDIGENOUS CULTURES
Maker
Production date
20th Century
Production place
Measurements
L.181 mm, W.38 mm
Media/Materials description
Wood, shell
History and use
The koauau is an end blown flute and one of the most common traditional Maori instruments. Koauau can be made from either wood or bone, and typically have three note holes on the upper surface. This example has been made from elaborately carved wood with paua shell inlay around the finger holes.
When played Koauau produce a haunting sound that is often accompanied by singing. When not in use they are worn strung around the neck.
This flute was donated to the museum as part of the Charles and Kati Marson collection of musical instruments. In 2002 the Marsons donated more than 800 instruments to Queensland Museum in partnership with the Queensland Conservatorium at Griffith University. This unique collection was donated with the intention that the instruments would be available to be accessed and played by musicians with the appropriate knowledge.
When played Koauau produce a haunting sound that is often accompanied by singing. When not in use they are worn strung around the neck.
This flute was donated to the museum as part of the Charles and Kati Marson collection of musical instruments. In 2002 the Marsons donated more than 800 instruments to Queensland Museum in partnership with the Queensland Conservatorium at Griffith University. This unique collection was donated with the intention that the instruments would be available to be accessed and played by musicians with the appropriate knowledge.
Associated person
Registration number
E17934
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