Make a Peruvian Siku Flute!

Invite your child to think about their favorite instruments or anything that makes musical sounds. Some examples might be a drum, a piano, a ukulele, a kazoo or even their own whistling! Ask your child, "What is interesting about each of these instruments?"

Explain that music happens when instruments or our own bodies make rhythmic and harmonious sounds. Try making music together with your hands, feet, and voices. Invite your child to find objects around you that could also make music.

The siku flute is a Peruvian instrument that makes music by blowing through long and short tubes. Look at pictures on the internet or in books to see examples of a siku and other flutes. Let’s make our own siku flute together!

Gather the materials for the sika flute. If using old markers, empty the insides until you have empty tubes by pulling out the centers with pliers. If using straws, move on to the next step.

Using a sharp knife, wire cutters, or another cutting tool, carefully cut the tubes (markers or straws) so that each tube is a bit shorter than the other — approximately ¼ inch difference per cut. In the end, you’ll want the bottom of your siku flute to taper gradually.

Invite your child to line the tubes flat on the table, longest to shortest. Tape the tubes together, wrapping them once near the top and once near the bottom.

Peruvians are known for their beautiful weaving. Invite your child to take yarn, string, or markers and make a fun pattern around the tape to decorate the siku flute. Try braiding, twisting, or other weaves — or just color a cool pattern.

Now it’s time to play! Invite your child to hold the siku flute under their lips and then blow down into the tubes. Each tube should make a different sound because of its different length. Find another instrument or create your own to join together in music. What song do you want to play? Practice a few familiar songs and then perform for friends and family. Invite them to dance to your music, sing, and even play together!