Ashar Fife - Student - High C

The fife, pífaro, or pife are small transverse flutes well known in Brazil through the fife 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 during the colonization period. Others believe they are of indigenous origin. The fact is that in various parts of the world, native cultures developed their transverse flutes.

In the Northeast is where the greatest tradition and profusion of fife bands is concentrated, but the sound has spread throughout 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 of the Upper Xingu. Also known as zabumba, cabaçal, esquenta mulher, terno de pífanos, among other names, they are formed by intuitive musicians.

It is hard to believe how an apparently so simple and handmade instrument is capable of producing such rich and beautiful music, animate parties, processions, and still be the livelihood of many musicians in various regions of Brazil.

“The famous Caruaru Fair, in Pernambuco, sung by Luiz Gonzaga, and Brazilian Intangible Cultural Heritage, continues to be a showcase for the region’s bands. There you find the Banda de Pífanos São Cristóvão, from Panelas, in the agreste of the state. Accordionist Dominguinhos used to say: “From seeing so many little fife bands, Mr. Luiz Gonzaga was inspired to create this formation of forró pé de serra, that is, accordion, zabumba, and triangle.” The sound of these instruments also influenced Brazilian composers and arrangers such as Quinteto Violado, Hermeto Pascoal, Egberto Gismonti, Geraldo Azevedo, Naná Vasconcelos, Quinteto Armorial, Carlos Malta, and Pife Muderno.” (via: redebrasilatual)