421.221.12 Open flutes with internal duct with fingerholes

Bamboo end-blown flute. The hole abovethe first four fingerholes is blocked with wax. Cellophane is wrapped around the flute near the distal end and secured with brown string; the cellophane should perhaps cover the first hole, functioning as a buzzing membrane.

The flute is held in both hands with the index and middle fingers covering the four fingerholes. It is played solo by herders when keeping cattle or goats, and in instrumental ensembles. It also accompanies vocal music.

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