What is kanun
Kanun is a traditional instrument of the Balkans that has been around for centuries. The Kanun is a plucked string instrument with a trapezoidal body.
It has 79 strings arranged in sets of 4, 5 or 6, tuned in unison. The Kanun is placed horizontally on the laps of the player and Kanunists play it by using a plectrum worn on the middle finger of the right hand to pluck the strings.
Kanun players are rare these days, but there are some who still keep this art form alive. If you’re ever in the Balkans, be sure to listen to a Kanun player! You will not regret it!
A brief history
The kanun is a musical instrument that has a long and rich history. believed to have originated in ancient Greece, it was later adopted by the Romans and then the Arabs. The Kanun eventually made its way to Europe, where it became a popular instrument during the Renaissance. Today, the Kanun is still widely used in traditional Arabic music, and its distinctive sound can also be heard in many other genres of music. Thanks to its versatility and unique tone, the Kanun continues to be one of the most popular instruments in the world.
How to play the kanun
Kanun is a string instrument that is played by plucking the strings with the fingers. It has a rectangular shape and it is usually made of wood.
Kanun is usually played while sitting on the floor with the instrument placed on the lap. The player uses two hands to pluck the strings. The right hand is used to pluck the strings while the left hand is used to hold down the strings. Kanun has a special tuning that allows the player to play multiple notes at the same time.
How to tune your kanun
Kanun players are highly skilled musicians, and it takes years of practice to master the instrument. The Kanun is a complex instrument, with a range of different notes that can be played. Each note is produced by a different string, and the Kanun player has to know how to pluck the right strings in order to produce the desired sound. Kanun music can be fast and lively, or slow and relaxing. It all depends on the melody being played.
How much does a kanun cost?
The Kanun is still widely used in Turkey and there are Kanun schools where Kanunists can learn to play this amazing instrument. The cost of a Kanun can vary depending on the brand, quality and size but you can expect to pay between $600 and $2000 for a Kanun.
If you are interested in learning how to play Kanun, there are many resources available online and in music stores. You can also find some Kanun players in your local community who can teach you how to play this fascinating instrument.
