Kaval

The kaval is a chromatic, end-blown flute commonly played throughout the Balkans, including Albania, Romania, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia, as well as Anatolia, including Turkey and Armenia. Historically, the kaval has been associated with mountain shepherds and is still widely used in folk music. Unlike the transverse flute, the kaval is fully open at both ends and is played by blowing on the sharpened edge of one end. The kaval has eight playing holes (seven in front and one for the thumb) and typically four additional intonation holes near the bottom, referred to as the ‘devil’s holes’.

History

The kaval is one of the oldest known instruments, deeply rooted in the musical traditions of the Balkans and Anatolia. It is often linked with shepherding culture, and it is believed to have spread across the region along with the Yörük people from southern Anatolia. Though once considered almost exclusively a shepherd’s instrument, the kaval has evolved into a widely used musical tool in folk music and dances. Today, it is played solo or in ensembles, performing both traditional and modern tunes.

Construction

The kaval is traditionally made from a variety of materials, including wood from cornel cherry, apricot, peach, or mountain ash. It may also be crafted from water buffalo horn, metal, or plastic. A kaval is typically made in one piece, though modern versions often come in three sections, particularly in Bulgaria. The instrument has eight playing holes, including one thumb hole, and four additional ‘devil’s holes’ or intonation holes near the bottom, which help shape the tone and pitch.

Players hold the kaval at a 45-degree angle and produce sound by blowing on the sharp edge of the top. Changes in air pressure and the angle of blowing help control the pitch. The instrument is known for its full chromatic scale and a distinctive “Kaba” register, which blends two octaves to produce a polyphonic-like sound. Experienced players can perform diatonic and chromatic scales, staccato, arpeggios, and vibrato with ease.

Playing Technique

Playing the kaval requires mastering several techniques, including circular breathing, which allows continuous play without interrupting the airflow. Players cover the holes using both hands, creating a range of notes by adjusting breath pressure and finger placement. The most difficult aspect for beginners is achieving the lower, soft-sounding “Kaba” register, while the upper registers require more breath control for a stronger tone.

Types of Kaval

There are two main types of kaval:

• Dilli Kaval: A kaval with a whistle (tongue), which produces sound easily, similar to a recorder.
• Dilsiz Kaval: A kaval without a whistle, requiring a special blowing technique to produce sound.

Modern Use and Regional Variations

While the kaval is widely played across the Balkans and Anatolia, there are variations in construction and playing techniques by region. For example, the Bulgarian kaval has become highly developed, offering a full chromatic scale and advanced tonal capabilities. In contrast, Romanian cavals may have fewer holes, affecting their range and playing style. In Turkey, different types of kaval are made from wood, metal, or bone, and each type is named according to its material and construction.