Controversy : Nose flute pitch accuracy

Our friend Cyril LeFebvre sent these 2 scans to us. In the book, Gabriel Yacoub, founder and singer of the folkloric band Malicorne, wrote :

« In Polynesia, the nose flute is a ritual instrument. In Europe, it's a "gizmo". The instrument, frequently made in plastics, fully envelops the nose sides and the mouth. It is held by one hand, the air is blown by the nose, and the open mouth works as a modulator. It allows to play melodies which accuracy is very approximative... »

Well, back in 1986, our beloved nasalette maybe was still a gadget. But since, it had gained the status of a real instrument. As for tone accuracy, it only depends on the player's skill, and not at all on the instrument.

Just watch and listen to this video by master Mosurin and be judge of the pitch accuracy :

Master Mosurin biography
Other videos by Master Mosurin
Music samples from his CD Hanabue no Hibiki 4