Nāy
Although used generically for folk flutes, this Arabic term, derived from Persian, refers specifically to bevelled-edged reed flutes of classical music. The reeds vary in length from 12 to 32 inches, usually contain 8 nodes, and should be not less than 3 years old when cut. The musician blows across the sharpened edge while holding the flute at an oblique angle on one side of the mouth. Continuous breathing produces a hauntingly beautiful and seamless melody. The fingers' middle joints cover the holes.
Artwork Details
- Title: Nāy
- Date: 19th century
- Geography: Syria
- Culture: Syrian
- Medium: Reed
- Dimensions: L. ±74.7 cm (±29½ in.); Diam(s). ±2.3 cm (±1 in.), ±1.7 cm (±¾ in.)
- Classification: Aerophone-Blow Hole-end-blown flute (vertical)
- Credit Line: The Crosby Brown Collection of Musical Instruments, 1889
- Object Number: 89.4.432
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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