Qanun

At the Ethnic Music Store, each Qanun is meticulously constructed using the finest materials, ensuring exceptional quality and craftsmanship. From the resonant soundboard to the delicate strings, every detail is thoughtfully designed to deliver an authentic and immersive musical experience.

Explore our Qanun category to find the perfect instrument that resonates with your musical aspirations. Each Qanun boasts its own unique characteristics, allowing you to choose based on your desired tone, size, and style. Our knowledgeable staff is available to assist you in selecting the right Qanun that suits your needs and preferences.

In addition to our exceptional Qanun collection, the Ethnic Music Store offers a range of accessories and resources to support your musical journey. From Qanun strings and cases to instructional books and recordings, we have everything you need to enhance your playing and expand your musical repertoire.

We invite you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of ethnic music and experience the beauty of the Qanun. Visit our website or come to our store to explore our Qanun collection and discover the joy of playing this remarkable instrument. Let the enchanting melodies of the Qanun transport you to distant lands and embrace the rich cultural heritage of ethnic music.

 With its enchanting sound and intricate design, the Kanun adds layers of melody and harmony to musical compositions, captivating audiences with its rich timbre and expressive capabilities.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Kanun features a trapezoidal wooden body, typically made from walnut, beech, or mahogany. Its soundboard is adorned with multiple sets of strings, traditionally made from nylon or gut, which are stretched across bridges and tuned to specific pitches. The strings are plucked with small plectrums, known as mızrap, held between the player’s fingertips, allowing for precise control over articulation and dynamics.

What sets the Kanun apart is its extensive range, spanning several octaves, and its microtonal capabilities, which enable musicians to perform the intricate melodies and ornamentations characteristic of Turkish and Middle Eastern music. The instrument’s tuning system, known as usul, divides the octave into smaller intervals, allowing for the subtle nuances and embellishments that define the genre.

In Turkish and Middle Eastern music, the Kanun plays a vital role, serving as both a solo instrument and an accompaniment to ensembles. Its versatility allows it to adapt to various musical styles and contexts, from classical Ottoman compositions to contemporary fusion genres. Whether performing traditional folk melodies, improvising intricate taqasim (solo improvisations), or accompanying vocalists and instrumentalists, the Kanun adds depth and color to the sonic tapestry of Turkish and Middle Eastern music.

Beyond its musical prowess, the Kanun holds cultural and historical significance in Turkish and Middle Eastern societies. It is often associated with refinement, sophistication, and the courtly traditions of the Ottoman Empire. Throughout history, virtuoso Kanun players have been revered for their skill and artistry, embodying the beauty and complexity of their musical heritage.

Today, the Turkish Kanun continues to flourish, both in its traditional form and in contemporary contexts. Its timeless appeal and evocative sound continue to inspire musicians and audiences alike, ensuring that the legacy of this enchanting instrument will endure for generations to come.