The pífano, pífaro or pife is a quena transverse flute very well known in Brazil by the pife bands of the northeast. Brazilian natives also have their transverse flutes in the fife style in other scales. Some researchers believe that fifes arrived in Brazil at the time of colonization. Others believe it to be of indigenous origin. The fact is that in various parts of the world, native cultures developed their transverse flutes.
The greatest tradition and profusion of fife bands is concentrated in the Northeast, but the sound has spread across the country. This form of expression can be found in all regions, in the Southeast (São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais), in the South (Santa Catarina), in the Midwest (Federal District) and in the North, in tribes from the Upper Xingu. . Also known as zabumba, cabaçal, warm woman, fife suit, among other names, they are formed by intuitive musicians.
It is hard to believe how an instrument apparently so simple and handcrafted is capable of producing such rich and beautiful music, enlivening parties, processions and still being the livelihood of many musicians in various regions of Brazil.
Diogenes Torres –
The instrument is very good!