The turali noseflute, also known as turahi by the Kadazan Dusun people, is a traditional musical instrument played solo for personal entertainment and expressions. Made from a long piece of bamboo, this flute is played through the nose.
In some areas in Sabah, it is played as an expression of grief when a loved one has departed. Its music can also express happiness and imitates the melodies of traditional songs. The soft, distinctive and melancholic sounds from the turali nose flute is unique and soothing, especially when played during the quiet of the night at the longhouse.
Sadly, this is a dying culture as many of the musicians are now too old or not able to fully pass along their musical skills. It will be a tremendous loss when this happens, isn’t it?
Image by matthahnewaldphoto