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Instruments |
The Kena | ||||||
| The Kena is simply a hollow, straight flute of the Andes. Sounds are produced by blowing on a notched edge while opening or covering the holes. Some of the oldest Kenas in the Andes, found in pre-Cuzco tombs in Huaylas and Naszca, Peru, date back to before 3,000 B.C. Though now made primarily of bambo, the original instruments were made of clay, stone and bone. The most popular of the various sizes of Kena is the medium-sized - approximateley 14 1/2" long (36cm) with the opening inside the flute approximately 3/4" in diameter. This medium-sized kena is tuned to E minor (Mi Minor) or G Major (Sol Major). The Kena is pentatonic in scale. To play the Kena, tighten your lips by making a smile, and place the Kena on the lower lip. The mouthpiece should be exactly in the center of your lips, and the upper lip should not touch the flute. | |||||
The Zampona | ||||||
| The zampona is a collection of several different sized bamboo tubes that are open at one end. Sound is produced by blowing on the hollow end at a 45 degree angle, while holding the instrument vertically -- much like the experience of blowing into a Coca-Cola bottle. The zampona is traditionally made from Andean Bamboo called Canahueca and is found in three different sizes, all tuned to E minor. The Ika is approximately 7 inches in length at the longest point. The Malta is approximately 13.5 inches in length at the longest point. The Sanka is approximately 22.5 inches in length at the longest point. |
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The Charango | ||||
 | The Charango is a ten-string guitar like instrument traditionally made from the shell of an armadillo. In an effort to preserve the dwindling armadillo population, Sukay World Music carries a variety of vegetarian versions of this beautiful instrument. The charango features a shimmering sound that,although it may be heard as similar to the mandolin, ukulele or the guitar,it is considerably more dynamic. | |||
The Chajchas | ||||||
| The Chachas are an ancient rattle made from the hooves of goats; or a goats' toe-nail rattle. |
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The Sukay Workbook | ||||||
 | The Sukay Workbook features lessons in playing the Kena and various zamponas described above. It was written by the Executive Director of Sukay, Quentin Howard. The workbook features music and lyrics from several of Sukay's award winning recordings. For beginners and intermediate players. | |||||
Sukay World Music, 3450 Sacramento Street #523, San Francisco, CA 94118
Tel/415 646-0018 Fax/415 646-0066
Email sukay@mindspring.com