Kobyz

The kobyz (or kylkobyz, also known as qobyz) is an ancient Turkic bowed string instrument played across Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Bashkortostan, and Tatarstan. The kobyz is unique for its resonant, haunting sound produced by two strings traditionally made of horsehair. The instrument is carved from a single piece of wood, often with a leather-covered resonating cavity, and has been integral to the spiritual and cultural practices of Turkic peoples, especially shamans and bakses—traditional healers. It is often associated with ritualistic music believed to banish evil spirits and sickness.

History of the Kobyz

The kobyz has deep roots in Central Asian culture and is traditionally considered a sacred instrument. It was used by shamans during rituals, and its sound was believed to possess mystical powers to heal and protect against evil forces. The kobyz was particularly respected for its role in banishing evil spirits, sickness, and even death according to folklore. The two strings, made of horsehair, contribute to its distinct sound, which is often used to imitate elements of nature, such as wolf howling, swan cries, running horses, or even the sound of arrows.

During the 1930s, with the establishment of folk orchestras in Soviet Kazakhstan, the traditional kobyz underwent modifications. The instrument was adapted into a more modern version with four metallic strings, making it closer to the violin. This modern kobyz allowed musicians to play more complex classical compositions in addition to traditional Kazakh music. Despite this modernization, the traditional two-stringed version of the kobyz is still revered and played today, particularly by folk musicians and shamans in rural areas.

Structure of the Kobyz

The kobyz is traditionally made from a single piece of wood, with the body carved into a hollow form. The resonating chamber is often covered with goat leather, which adds a distinctive warmth and resonance to the sound. Unlike many string instruments, the kobyz does not have an upper board. The instrument features a “bubble hemisphere” covered with leather, with the handle extending out from the top, resembling a spike. The two strings are made from horsehair and are tied to the top of the handle, extending down over a short, curved bridge to the bottom of the body.

The bow used for the kobyz is also unique; it is short, and traditionally strung with horsehair. The kobyz is played by holding it between the knees, similar to a cello, and the player uses a bow to produce its hauntingly resonant sound. The strings are not fingered in the usual sense, but rather squeezed against the handle, allowing for nuanced tonal modulation that is well-suited for the expressive folk melodies and ritualistic music for which the kobyz is known.

Cultural Significance

Traditionally, the kobyz was used by shamans and spiritual healers in ceremonies and rituals. It held a spiritual significance, as it was believed to possess the power to communicate with the spirit world. Today, the kobyz has an important place in Kazakh and Kyrgyz folk music, and it is used to perform küi, which are short, programmatic instrumental pieces that often narrate a story or evoke particular emotions. The repertoire for the kobyz includes pieces that mimic natural sounds, such as animal calls or natural elements, reflecting its deep connection to nature and the mystical.

Regional Variations

In Karakalpak Music

The kobyz is still played by the jyrau, the traditional bards of the Karakalpak people. The jyrau use the kobyz as an accompaniment during the recitation of epics and dastan. The kobyz punctuates the narrative, supports the melodic line during sung parts, and sustains notes as needed. The jyrau’s vocal style, characterized by a guttural, raspy timbre, imitates the kobyz’s sound, reflecting the instrument’s role in their tradition.

In Tatar Music

The kobyz flourished among the Tatars before the fall of the Kazan khanate in 1552. Although it became less common afterward, it survived among Tatar dervishes until the late 18th century. Today, the kobyz is part of Tatar ethnic music and is featured in various traditional ensembles. The study and preservation of the kobyz have been revitalized in Tatarstan by scholars like Gennady Makarov.

In Kyrgyz Music

The Kyrgyz version of the kobyz is called the kyl-kyyak. This instrument, carved from a single piece of wood—often apricot—typically measures around 60-70 cm. It has two strings: one for melody and the other for resonance. The kyl-kyyak is unique for its connection to horse culture, as it can be played while on horseback, and many kyl-kyyak instruments feature a carved horse’s head as decoration. The instrument is integral to Kyrgyz rural culture and reflects the importance of the horse in their society.

Modern Use and Revival

In modern times, the kobyz continues to be an important part of Kazakh cultural heritage, with a repertoire that includes both traditional and modern pieces. It is played in folk orchestras, as well as solo performances. One of the few Western musicians to incorporate the kobyz into his work is Trefor Goronwy, who has explored its use in various contemporary settings.