Kèn bầu
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The kèn bầu (Vietnamese: [kɛ̂n ɓə̂w]) is one of several types of kèn, a double reed wind instrument used in the traditional music of Vietnam.[1] It is similar in construction and sound to the Chinese suona and the Korean taepyeongso. It comes in various sizes and is a primary instrument of the former royal court music of Huế.
Construction
[edit]The instrument has a conical hardwood body with seven finger holes. Unlike its Chinese and Korean counterparts, the kèn bầu has a detachable bell made of jackfruit wood, carved in the shape of a gourd (originally it was probably made out of an actual dried gourd, but wood is more durable). Into the playing end is fitted a small brass tube onto which a small double reed is placed. This type of musical instrument are quite familiar in Asia, the Indian analogy being Shehnai.
Playing
[edit]
The instrument's technique involves the use of circular breathing as well as a wide variety of ornamentation including wide vibrato and sliding tones.
Etymology
[edit]Kèn means oboe and bầu means gourd, referring to the instrument's bell. The Vietnamese monochord zither called đàn bầu, which also formerly had a gourd as part of its construction, shares the use of this word in its name.
Performers
[edit]One of the most prominent kèn bầu players is Trần Thảo, who leads the nhã nhạc (royal music) group of Hue and has toured internationally. He is part of a hereditary lineage of court musicians.
References
[edit]- ^ Stone, Ruth M. (25 September 2017). The Garland Encyclopedia of World Music: The World's Music: General Perspectives and Reference Tools. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-351-54411-5.
External links
[edit]Video
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