Māori koauau with manaia

Description:

Māori Kōauau with manaia

Kōauau:Māori wooden flute with manaia design.

Info about kōauau

Kōauau are the most common type of Māori flute, and traditionally were made from various woods, kelp or bones. They range in length from about 10cm to 38.5 cm. 

They usually have have three finger-holes, known as wenewene. The sounds are further manipulated with slight movements of tongue and lips.

Kōauau are used in entertainment, but also for healing and grieving and to ease pain. The music of kōauau always had words and an expert player could make these heard through the instrument.

Source: Te Ara - Māori musical instruments >>

Playing a kōauau

Now, there's a challenge. Kōaua are a beautiful part of Māori culture. However, it is not easy to play a Māori kōauau. Have you heard someone play the koauau? The sounds of a kōauau are quite haunting, and really beautiful - you 'feel' the kōauau when you hear the kōauau. Check out YouTube videos.

Size kōauau with manaia

Kōauau: 130mmx50mm (5.12"x1.97")