Wind — double-reed shawm
Zurna
Also known as: Zurna
Region: Pan-Anatolian/Mesopotamian; central to Kurdish wedding music
About the Zurna
A loud double-reed conical-bore shawm, designed to be heard outdoors. The zurna is paired with the davul drum to form the iconic Kurdish wedding ensemble. Drives the govend and halay circle dances at every Kurdish celebration.
Where it's used
Wedding processions, govend and halay dances, outdoor celebrations
How to learn
Zurna is regional and often hereditary — most players come from village musician families. Outsiders typically learn through dedicated apprenticeship.
Deeper reading
Read the full Zurna article →
