A Rondador is the national instrument of Ecuador that comes from an ancient history dating back to 300 and 1500 AD. It is made of cane placed side by side which when played forms a two-pitch sound. Each Rondador is different as it is handmade. Furthermore, it can range from eight to thirty pipes. This instrument goes all the way back to the Inca people. My family on my mom’s side has ancestors from the Quechua people which are the native mountain people of Ecuador. The Rondador can be used during several events. While the instrument is used in times of joy, it can also be used to express grief. Many times the Rondador is used at different festivals and celebrations such as the Independence Day of Ecuador on August 10th or, relating more to the natives, in celebration of a good harvest. On the other hand, it can be used in a sad tone to express grief and sorrow if someone dies or someone is sick. Also, this object is important to me because not only does it come from my family’s home country, Ecuador but because it even dates back to my ancestors from the Inca. This Rondador was brought back from Ecuador by my brother when he went in 2010. However, my mom was the one who told me about the Rondador.  Although my personal Rondador doesn't come from several generations down, it still has sentimental meaning to me. 

– Michelle Gomez

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant