lohkes

Lohkes are a traditional wind instrument native to the highland and coastal communities of Lathuria. They consist of a long wooden tube with six finger holes and a flared bell, typically 60–80 cm in length, and are played with a lip- or reed-mouthpiece to produce a bright, penetrating tone.

The name lohke derives from the Lathurian word lohka, meaning “voice,” a reflection of its role in signaling and storytelling. The instrument is carved from alder or juniper, with a bore that is slightly conical. Finishes often use natural resins or oils, and decorative incisions may mark the maker’s workshop or regional origin.

In performance, lohkes are used in solo pieces and in small ensembles that may include drums or stringed instruments. Players employ a diatonic scale with occasional microtonal inflections, as well as breathing ornaments, finger trills, and subtle lip-bending to approximate natural winds. The repertoire emphasizes storytelling, seasonal rituals, and communal gatherings, with the instrument serving both musical and communicative functions.

Historically, the lohke appears in medieval records and later regional chronicles, spreading across valleys and coastlines as a symbol of regional identity. Its use declined in the 20th century amid modernization and flat cultural importation of new instruments, but revival movements since the 1980s have reestablished its presence in traditional ceremonies and public performances.

Today, lohkes survive in several communities, supported by master craftsmen, apprenticeships, and regional workshops. Museums and cultural programs preserve historic lohkes and document construction techniques, while contemporary makers explore new tonal timbres within the traditional form.