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Caucasus / Middle East · Caucasus and Middle East
Zurna

Zurna

Loud folk wind instrument

About zurna

Sound and Character

Sound and Character

The sound of the zurna is extremely bright, sharp, piercing, and triumphant. It is not designed for quiet playing: its task is to cover huge distances in open spaces.

Design and Features

A conical wooden tube (made of apricot or walnut wood) with a wide bell and 7-8 playing holes. A massive double reed with a small metal pipe for pitch adjustment is attached to the top.

Genres Used In

  • Caucasian and Middle Eastern folk dances
  • Wedding processions and street festivities