The Hohle Fels Flute: 42,000 Years Of Sound Reborn
A modern, playable replica of the world’s oldest known instrument. The original was carved from vulture bone; our version is meticulously recreated with modern craft.
Hand-finished in Long Beach, California. Each one is tuned for a clear, resonant, ancient voice.
What This Is
This is a faithful, playable replica of the Hohle Fels flute, one of humanity’s first instruments from the Aurignacian period. The original was discovered in a cave in southern Germany in 2008. Our version is crafted for musicians, educators, and collectors who want to hold music history and make it sing.
Why You’ll Love It
- Authentic Design: Rim-blown with five finger holes
- Meditative Scale: Pentatonic tuning for intuitive melodies
- Easy to Play: Comfortable mouthpiece geometry for easier tone production
- Durable & Safe: Crafted from high-stability PETG body material
- Premium Feel: Hand-sanded finish for exceptional feel and response
- Supports a Mission: Your purchase supports Galactivators art and music projects
Watch The Video
Video: "The Hohle Fels flute 🦴~35,000 years of sound" by Galactivators: High Vibe Music
Craftsmanship
We use precise modern fabrication for the flute body. Following this, every instrument is hand-sanded and test-voiced right here in Long Beach, CA. The result is a reliable instrument that honors the ancient form while remaining stable in modern climates.
The Sound & Tuning
The original Hohle Fels flute was found to produce a pentatonic scale (five notes per octave), similar to the minor pentatonic scale. This means the voice is naturally meditative and harmonious with no “wrong notes.”
The approximate tuning based on research is A – C – D – E – G. It blends beautifully with modern drones, sound baths, and ambient textures. Since it is rim-blown (like a ney or shakuhachi), pitch can be subtly bent by changing your blowing angle, meaning the exact tuning varies slightly per player.
Specifications
What's In The Box
- Hohle Fels Flute Replica (play-tested)
- How-to-Play Guide (Digital & Printed Info Card)
- Soft protective wrap
- Access to future playing demos and tips
How To Play… Quick Start
These prehistoric replicas can be a little tricky compared to modern instruments. Unlike the Divje Babe flute (which I’ve learned to play), the Hohle Fels requires a different embouchure and breath angle. I myself am still learning how to play it.
I have seen people be able to play it online. Here are some tips that have been helpful to others:
- Blow gently across the edge of the opening, like blowing across the top of a bottle.
- Adjust your angle up and down until you find the “sweet spot” where it resonates.
- Try getting a tone before working with the finger holes. Patience is key…. each replica responds a bit differently.
Helpful Resources & Demonstrations:
These videos aren’t of the exact same model but use similar techniques that can help you get started.
Care Instructions
Wipe all moisture after playing. Avoid hot cars and direct heat. Rinse the windway with lukewarm water if needed. Always air dry fully before storing.
Shipping Details
Ships from Long Beach, California in 1–2 business days. Includes tracked domestic shipping. International options and rates are available at checkout.
Our Guarantee
If your flute arrives damaged, we will replace it immediately. If you are not satisfied for any reason within 14 days, please contact us and we’ll make it right.
⚠️ Note: This is a modern educational and musical replica—not an original archaeological artifact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this flute truly playable?
Yes, but it is very challenging! These are faithful replicas of a 42,000-year-old instrument, which requires patience and practice to master the embouchure (the way you use your mouth) and breath angle. We encourage you to check the Quick Start section for tips and resources.
Is it tuned to a specific modern concert pitch?
The Hohle Fels is based on an ancient pentatonic scale (A–C–D–E–G) discovered by researchers who reconstructed the original artifact. It is designed for ancient musical color and intuitive, meditative play, not modern concert pitch. As a rim-blown instrument, the exact pitch will vary based on the player's technique.
Are the materials safe?
Yes. It has a durable PETG body that is hand-finished with no exposed coatings or chemicals on the windway.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, we ship worldwide. Shipping rates and options for your country will be calculated and shown at checkout.
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