gajda
The Macedonian gajda is typically a two-voice bagpipe. It consists of:
- a chanter (gajdarka), usually made of barberry (a hard wood with yellowish color). The chanter has seven finger holes and a thumbhole on the back; a reed is attached at the end of the pipe
- a drone (brchalo, buchalo, rog) made of three parts that fit together; it produces a continuos tone (the second voice)
- a wooden blowing pipe (duvalo) attached to bag
- a bag (mev), made of tanned sheep skin or goat skin
Before playing, the gajda should be tuned. This is achieved by playing the fifth tone on the chanter (with the upper four holes covered) and adjusting the length of the drone, so that it plays two octaves lower.
The gajda is held under the arm (the bag should be inflated from time to time). The chanter is held with both hands, so that the left hand fingers cover the lower 4 holes, while the upper three and the thumbhole are covered with the right hand fingers.
The drone is placed over the shoulder or over the right arm, or it can be left hanging.
The gajda plays 9 diatonic and 2-3 chromatic tones. The most commonly used keys are B and A, though lower keys are also available. The gajda repertoire includes folk dances and songs, which are performed typically during festive occasions. It is played both solo or as part of a folk ensemble in performing folk dances or instrumental improvisations.
This gajda is made by Stojanče Kostovski, a professional musician in the Tanec folk ensemble.
Gajda in the traditional music
Pece Atanasovski
Vasiličarsko oro (13 gajdi)
Stojanče Kostovski
Todor Gičev
Pece Atanasovski
Related book:
Gajdata vo Makedonija
This book by Borivoje Džimrevski is a valuable source of information about the Macedonian gajda and includes notes for a large number of songs/dances.
in Macedonian, illustrated
Price: $14.80 Buy it