Burkina Faso (formerly Upper Volta)
Gurunsi

Bronze
Early – Mid 20th century
Length: 4 inches
Aerophone – Edge-blown – Flute/Whistle

One of the most common musical instruments found among the various people of Burkina Faso is the top blown flute used by groups of young initiates or senior male members of society. Flutes are used to accompany ceremonies in close association with local languages that are tonal and match rhythmical language patterns. It is reported that flutes such as this are played in competitions held during planting when the male who had finished his parcel would blow on his flute for recognition as the best farmer. Flutes are widely traded and therefore often difficult to attribute to one group or another . (Roy 19887:85, pl. 59). Bronze flutes are especially prized and would be handed down through the ages to young initiates within the family lineage. This is a well-used example from the wear around the mouthpiece and the well rubbed surface it has from years of use and care.