Gaval

The gaval is a frame drum made by stretching skin over a wide wooden hoop. Traditionally the skin is sturgeon hide, and metal rings that jingle are fixed inside the frame.

In the mugham trio the singer plays the gaval himself, keeping the rhythm while he sings, and sometimes raises it before his face to project his voice.

The gaval is also widely used for dances, folk songs and weddings. A skilled player draws different sounds from its centre, its rim and its rings.