An instrument with Marquesan roots
An instrument with Marquesan roots
The vivo, or pu ihu in the Marquesas Islands, is a traditional Polynesian nasal flute made from bamboo. Measuring between 20 and 40 cm in length, it has a notch for blowing and two or three finger holes, which are sufficient to produce a range that is both understated and expressive. Variations exist, reflecting the spread of this instrument throughout the Polynesian triangle.
Manufacturing at the heart of the arts and crafts
Upon graduating from the arts and crafts center, Keanu immersed himself in the art of making vivo.
- Choice of material: bamboo with a regular cross-section is selected; its length determines the pitch of the register (short = high-pitched, long = low-pitched).
- Cutting and balancing: after closing one end, the mouthpiece notch is made and the internal chamber is calibrated.
- Hole drilling: traditionally 2 to 3, they can go up to 7 or 8 to increase melodic freedom.
- Decorative pyrography: geometric or symbolic patterns, reminiscent of Polynesian spirituality.
Each step requires precision and patience; the craftsman’s skill directly influences the accuracy and richness of the tone.
The nasal technique and mana
The vivo is played at an angle, with one nostril blocked and the other blowing into the notch. This particular “nasal breathing” limits the fingering and gives the instrument an intimate, almost whispered sound.
Keanu says, “You can feel a thrill; the mana.”
From tradition to the contemporary scene
Historically played during pastoral solos or sacred ceremonies, the vivo is experiencing a revival.
- Cultural festivals: introductory workshops, demonstrations, and Polynesian music jams.
- Modern collaborations: fusion with percussion, contemporary vocals, or electronic textures.
- Research and teaching: the center for trades and arts now offers dedicated modules.
Keeping the spirit alive: a call for new breathers
The vivo remains little known outside Polynesia. To help spread the word, you can
- Participate in a craft workshop (reed weaving, drilling, pyrography).
- Learn nasal breathing and how to play your first tunes.
- Share your experiences and creations, on stage or online, to enrich the vivo community.
Open one nostril, breathe into the other… and let yourself be carried away by an ancestral breath, a vehicle of memory and renewal.
About the author
Maeva LAUTRET Driven by her love of words and a deep connection to the culture of Fenua, Maeva writes meaningful, gentle, and authentic stories for anoe-tahiti.com.
“I love words that feel right words that resonate. Telling beautiful stories means stirring emotions. And emotion is the bridge between beauty and truth.”
REDSOYU agency