Kaval musical instrument is one of the first wind instruments of mankind. Kaval musical instrument is one of the first wind instruments of mankind. It is known from the Central Asian Turkish civilizations. The kaval, which has been known as the "shepherd's instrument" or "whistle" for centuries in Turkey, has been played in different names and forms in the societies where it spread with the Great Migration.
Kaval is a rim-blown flute used in rural areas, by shepherds. It has an opaque timbre, it can either make a thin or a deep sound. Kaval is generally made of plum or boxwood. It has seven finger-holes and one thumb-hole. There are two types of kaval; the presence of a whistle in a kaval makes such difference. Dilsiz kaval (kaval without a tongue) means a kaval without a whistle whereas dilli kaval (kaval with a tongue) signifies a kaval with whistle. There is a variety of kavals in our catalogue with different sizes, made of various materials. We also offer in our store a thirteen pieces plastic kaval set. Different sizes of kaval produce different keys, for instance there are kavals in D, C, B and A. All kavals in our store are hand-made, constructed by masters. Do not hesitate to visit us in Istanbul or check our catalogue through our website. We believe you will find here the most convenient kaval for you at the best value.
Kaval is derived from "kav" meaning hollow thing. This name, which was ascribed to the instrument centuries ago, generally includes a common concept peculiar to all woodwind instruments (structural form).
Techniques
Dilsiz Kaval is similar to Ney in terms of blowing techniques, but has important differences. In order to make a sound from the mute kaval, the lips are shaped into the letter U and the kaval, which is held parallel to the chin, is deflected approximately 45 degrees to the right or left from the facial axis to produce a sound.
Although it is easier to make a sound in Dilli kaval, a relatively easy method called snoring, in which the lower and upper jaw bones are used, is required to play. Since the kaval, which is very simple in structure, gives great freedom to the breath, many different blowing techniques can be developed.
The following sound can be obtained from the kaval:
- The lips are puckered as the word "tu" is spoken.
- The mouthpiece of the kaval musical instrument is placed 2/3 on the right side of the shrunken lips, the lower part of the kaval should be held with the right hand, and the upper part should be held in the left hand.
- The breath is blown into the mouthpiece of the kaval instrument without force too much effort.
Initially, all the pitches of the kaval must be left open to obtain sound. Curtains are closed with finger knuckles. In Kaval, nuances are done in different ways. In Anatolia, the most common shape is made by swinging the kaval from the bottom to the mouth, especially in long tones. Also, nuances can be made in different ways by increasing or decreasing the breathing intensity, shaking the head slightly and slightly moving the finger on the fret.