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KLOY
Description
The
Kloy, (Cambodian flute) is said to have originated from
around the seventh century. Records of its existence
have been found in carvings on ancient stone pillars,
dating from around the year 611 AD. The carvings shows a
group of four musicians; playing “Pin Peat” music,. With
one playing the “Pin” and the other three the
Samphor,
the Ching and the
Kloy.
The
Kloy was originally performed only in the more formal
Pin Peat orchestra, but gradually its use has expanded
into the Mohowrri and Bassac orchestras. This instrument
is probably one of the most popular amongst the Khmer
people and is found all over Cambodia. Perhaps this is
because it is simple to play and easy to make.
In the
early days of Kloy, there were only four finger holes.
The number later increased to six and then to eight.
Around the country, a variety of Kloy can be found and
the pitches vary according to the length and width of
the instrument.
Made of
bamboo named “Russey Poch’” (hardwood), the Kloy has a
mouthpiece made of hardwood from the Aova tree, to
ensure water resistance.
The
method of playing the Kloy is as follows:
When
covering all the finger holes, the note produced is
middle “C”. On releasing the smallest finger of the
fourth, the sound is “E”. Continuing with the lifting of
each finger on the right hand, the sounds are “F” and
“G”. Releasing of the left hands results in “A”, “B” and
the thumb, a high “C”.
note: click on the
sound link to listen to the sound of the instrument.
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