🎵 Science / Physics • Years 11-13

Physics of Traditional Māori Instruments

Sound waves, resonance, and acoustics through taonga pūoro

Taonga Pūoro

Taonga pūoro are traditional Māori musical instruments. Through studying these instruments, we can explore the physics of sound including wave properties, resonance, and harmonics.

Instruments to Explore

Pūtōrino: The "bugle flute" - resonance and overtones
Koauau: Cross-blown flute - standing waves
Pūrerehua: Bull-roarer - rotational sound production
Poi āwhiowhio: Swinging poi - Doppler effect