Bob was asking about construction methods. I believe that the flute is split, hollowed out in two sections with a wall between them, and then glued back together. There are holes on either side of the wall, joined at the point where they meet the exterior of the flute. This is called the "nest." On top of this sits the "bird." This is a fetish, usually carved into a bird shape, but not always (on mine it's a bear). The underside of the bird is hollowed out slightly and it directs the air coming up from the mouthpiece chamber across the hole leading to the sound chamber. This fulfills the same purpose as the fipple on a whistle. The bird is moveable to adjust the tone and volume of the flute. I hope this description is not too confusing. I have a book at home that gives some of the history and legends about the courting flute (a lovely name) and I will post some more information about it later.

jeffp