Date:07/07/2009 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/yw/2009/07/07/stories/2009070750110300.htm

Tune of the times

PHOTO : AP

MUSIC FROM THE PAST : Flutes from another age.

Scientists in Germany have published details of flutes dating back to the time that modern humans began colonising Europe, 35,000 years ago. The flutes are the oldest musical instruments found to date. The most well-preserved of the flutes is made from a vulture’s wing bone, measuring 20cm long with five finger holes and two V-shaped notches on one end of the instrument into which the researchers assume the player blew.

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