Description: The quena is a pre-colombian flute having seven finger holes. It is one of the main principle flutes played amongst the Inca and Aymara peoples. It is widely found throughout Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador and in North Western Chile and North Western Argentina. Evidence of the use of the notched flutes is documented on black and white pottery artwork from the Chavin culture [900-200 B.C.] and the costal Cavay culture [1300-1438] of Peru. Today quenas are made from wide variety of different materials including condor or other animal bone, bamboo, cane, tin, aluminum, or even copper gold alloy amongst high end custom flutes. Outside of Peru the quena enjoys a wide audience in world music. In the Andean ensembles the quena is a lead instrument that is accompanied by the vocals and followed by the charango, mandolin, guitar, bombo and other musical instruments. In Cusco for example the quena is often accompanied by the vocals, mandolin and harp. Where as in other regions such as Pataqumbo one would find ensembles who include the quena, mandolin, accordion and percussion.

 

 

 

 
 

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