Instruments

• Tambura
• Kaval
• Šupelka & Duduk
• Gajda
• Zurla
• Tapan
• Dajre

The šupelka is similar to the kaval (open on both ends), except that is is shorter (240-350 mm). It can be made of either walnut, barberry, ash wood, maple or other wood.

The šupelka plays the chromatic scale (two octaves), except the first note of the lower octave. In the low register, its sound is soft and pleasant, while in the upper register it is sharp and shrill.

The šupelka has six finger holes and is tapered at the upper end. It is played with the three middle fingers of both hands and is held at a 45° angle. It is used both in solistic improvisations and together with other instruments.

 

duduk

A kind of blocked-end flute, which in some part of Macedonia is also called kaval or kavalce. Made of barberry, maple or other wood, it comes in two sizes: 700-780mm and 240-400mm (duduce). The blocked end is flat. Playing the duduk is fairly straightforward and easy, thus it is widely used throughout Macedonia. Its sound is clean and pleasant. Plays two octaves, with diatonic and chromatic tones. When played, it is held vertically in front of the body.
These instruments are made by Stojanče Kostovski.