Duduk

orig. Caucasus, northern Iran, northeast Iraq The duduk, also known as the balaban in Azerbaijan, is a wooden tube attached to a double cane reed. It is played by holding the reed between the lips and blowing while covering and uncovering the air holes with the fingers. The duduk's velvety sound and wide dynamic range have made it popular for a variety of musical genres. Traditionally, it is played in small ensembles to accompany lyric songs and dances, often in duet with frame drums, such as the daf. Today, it is also played in larger professional ensembles and in urban clubs.

The duduk is now also often featured in musical genres not previously associated with the instrument. Innovative jazz musician Djivan Gasparian has featured the duduk in collaborations with such famous classical ensembles as the Kronos Quartet, as well as with well-known solo musicians, such as Peter Gabriel. Gasparian's compositions have also appeared on the soundtracks to major films, including The Crow.