Taragot

Taragot is a term used in several Eastern European languages to refer to a reed woodwind instrument that is related to the clarinet. The word appears in Romanian and Hungarian contexts with overlapping but not identical meanings, and it can denote either a standard clarinet or a closely related folk instrument.

In Romanian folk and popular music, taragot commonly designates a clarinet or a clarinet-like instrument used in ensembles, dances, and street performances. The instrument is typically made of wood or a similar material, uses a single reed, and employs a system of keys to cover tone holes, producing a bright, expressive melodic line.

In Hungarian and related traditions, tarogató (an sometimes anglicized form of taragot) refers to a similar family of wind instruments but is often described as a distinct folk clarinet-like instrument with its own regional design variations. The tarogató is associated with Hungarian folk music and revival scenes, where its characteristic timbre contributes to dances and seasonal celebrations.

Across regions, taragot-type instruments are generally used to carry melodic passages, improvise in folk tunes, and accompany vocal or danced ensembles. They are played with standard clarinet-style technique, though regional builders may tailor bore shape, mouthpieces, and key systems to achieve different tones and ease of playing.

See also: Clarinet, Tarogató

Note: The term taragot may also occur in other languages with different local interpretations, and in some contexts it is used as a variant spelling or naming convention for closely related instruments.