AInstrumentIndependent states
Sybyzgy
A long end-blown flute of reed or wood; the player sings a low throat drone while playing the melody.
The sybyzgy is known as a shepherd's instrument: a tube open at both ends with two to four finger holes. The player blows across the rim while humming a low throat drone, producing a two-layered sound reminiscent of the wind.
Kuys about the steppe, migration, horses and nature are played on it. Related instruments exist among the Kyrgyz (choor), Bashkirs (kurai) and Altaians.
Today the sybyzgy lives on in folk ensembles and orchestras as one of the oldest voices of Kazakh music.
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Updated: October 2, 2026