Kemancheh

Kemancheh, also spelled kamancheh or kamāncheh, is a traditional spike fiddle used across Iran, Azerbaijan, Armenia, and parts of the Ottoman and post-Ottoman world. The name is commonly traced to the Persian kamān (bow) with the diminutive suffix cheh, effectively meaning “little bow.” The instrument is known for its bright, piercing tone and its role in melodic line performance within traditional ensembles.

Construction and setup: The kemancheh has a small, rounded wooden body, often carved from mulberry or similar wood and covered with a skin membrane. A long neck extends from the body and carries moveable frets tied to the neck to adjust intonation for microtonal scales. It typically has four strings, historically gut or metal, that are played with a horsehair bow. The instrument is held upright on the knee or thigh, with the bow drawn across the strings to produce sound.

Playing technique and sound: The kemancheh is played with a vertical bow and requires precise control to render microtones, ornamentation, and vibrato characteristic of its traditions. The technique emphasizes a singing melodic line, expressive bending of pitches, and a strong, projecting timbre that can cut through ensembles.

Cultural context and influence: The instrument is central to Persian classical music (radif), Azerbaijani mugham, Armenian music, and related regional styles. Related bowed instruments exist in nearby cultures, including the Turkish kemençe of the Black Sea region, which shares a family resemblance but differs in construction and technique. The kemancheh continues to be used in traditional performances as well as contemporary and world-music contexts.