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The shawm was probably a Mohammedan invention
and supposedly developed in Bagdad during the reign of Calif Harun-al-Rashid
(763-807). It seems logical that the shawn was introduced into Europe during
the time of the Crusades when the typical Saracen military band consisted of
shawms, trumpets, and drums.
The medieval or oriental shawm is keyless with seven finger holes and one
thumb hole. The narrow bore accounts for its compact tone which is produced
by a double reed which is not controlled by the player's lips (i.e., the
entire reed is placed inside the mouth). This reed is attached to a staple
at whose base lies a metal disc, against which the player presses his lips
when performing.
Music
Bladder Pipe
Cornamuse
Dulcian
Gamba Harp
Harpsichord
Kortholt
Lizard
Lute
Organetto Pipe and
Tabor Psaltery Rebec Recorder Sacbut
Schalmei Serpent Shawm Shofar Viol
Songs |
