AInstrumentIndependent states
Kyl kyiak
An ancient Kyrgyz bowed instrument with two horsehair strings, a relative of the Kazakh kobyz.
The body of the kyl kyiak is carved from one piece of wood, its lower part covered with skin. Its two strings and bow are made of horsehair, and it is played held between the knees.
Its hoarse, trembling sound recalls the howling wind, a horse's neigh and the human voice, so ancient epics and sad songs were accompanied on it.
Today the kyl kyiak sounds alongside the komuz and temir komuz in national ensembles and is taught in Kyrgyz music schools.
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Updated: October 3, 2026