nyelcsövet

Nyelcsövet is a Hungarian term that translates to "tongue pipe" or "reed pipe" in English. It refers to a type of sound-producing mechanism found in various musical instruments, particularly those of folk traditions. The core principle of a nyelcsövet involves a vibrating reed, often made of metal or wood, that is set in motion by a stream of air. This vibration creates a specific pitch as it resonates within a pipe or chamber.

The construction and complexity of nyelcsövet mechanisms can vary significantly. In simpler instruments, a single reed might be attached to a short pipe, producing a single note. More elaborate designs can involve multiple reeds, each tuned to a different pitch, or reeds that are activated by a bellows or by the player's breath through a mouthpiece. These instruments are often found in Hungarian folk music, contributing unique timbres to traditional melodies and dances.

Instruments utilizing the nyelcsövet principle include certain types of bagpipes (dudás), hurdy-gurdies (tekerőlant), and some free-reed aerophones. The characteristic buzzing or reedy sound produced by the nyelcsövet is a defining feature of these instruments and contributes to their distinctive musical character. The term itself highlights the direct connection between the vibrating element (the tongue or reed) and the pipe that amplifies its sound.