A pinkillu, also called pinkuyllu or pinqullu, is a flute found in the Andes mountains. It is used mainly in the northwest of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru. People often play it with one hand, while the other hand is used to strike a drum called a tinya. The pinkillu is played during public festivals and other community events. It has many names, including pincollo, pincuyllo, pingullo, and pinquillo, among others. These names are used by Spanish-speaking people in different regions.

Construction and materials

The pinkillu can be up to 1 meter 20 centimeters long and has six holes for fingers. It is most often made from cane, but can also be made from bamboo, bone, or tree branches. In Peru and Bolivia, animal nerves from sheep and llamas are used to tie the instrument together. Different types of pinkillu include the ch'aka pinkillu (a flute made from bone), the qina qina pinkillu (a flute made from cane), and the tupa pinkillu (made from thicker tuquru cane).

Cultural uses and significance

The pinkillu is an important instrument in Andean culture. It is played during the early rainy season to celebrate farming and raising cattle. The instrument is often played in pairs or groups during the rainy season and at festivals. In Bolivia, people believe that pinkillus made from cane help bring rain. Before playing, the pinkillu is wetted with alcohol or water. The instrument is connected to ideas about fertility.