Kabak Kemane (Gourd violin)

Kabak Kemane (Gourd violin)

This is a widespread Turkish folk instrument, the features of which change from region to region. The instruments known as the kabak, kemane, iklığ, rabab, the hegit in Hatay province, the rubaba in the Southeast, the kemança in Azerbayjan, and as the gıcak, gıccek or gıjek among the Turks of Central Asia are all known to share the same roots.

The table is generally made from a dipper gourd, although wooden versions are also frequently encountered. The stem is made from hard wood. A shaft made of wood or metal lies under the table. This is placed on the knee and allows the instrument to be moved from right to left. The bow is made from a sapling with horse hair running from one end to the other. Nowadays metal strings are used, replacing the formerly employed gut strings.

The instrument can easily produce all forms of chromatic sound. It produces long sounds, and can also be played legato, staccato and pizzicato.

Sound of gourd violin/mp3 (1.011)
Sound of gourd violin/rm (188KB)

Pictures: Gourd violin