Duduk (Armenian Double-Reed Flute)
The duduk is the double-reed woodwind of Armenia, carved from apricot wood into a short cylindrical tube fitted with a wide, flat reed, and played with circular breathing so the sound never stops. The technique of breathing in through the nose while squeezing air from the cheeks gives the duduk its characteristic long, breathy, singing notes, and the instrument is called the voice of Armenia for its warm, mournful tone. It accompanies folk songs, dances and round dances, but above all the lament, and it pairs with songs of mourning and love at weddings, funerals and the great feast days. In 20