View source for Kuzhal

{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2019}}
[[File:കുഴലും ചെണ്ടയും.jpg|thumb|right|Kuzhal aerophones and [[chenda]] drums]]

The '''kuzhal''' is a traditional [[double reed]] wind instrument used in the south [[India]]n state of [[Kerala]]. It is similar in construction to a ''[[nadaswaram|nagaswaram]]'' or a large ''[[shehnai]]'', and has a very shrill and penetrating tone.

Kuzhal is primarily used as an accompaniment for chenda-led ensembles [[Panchari Melam]] and [[Pandi Melam]], where the piper plays the anchor role. However, as prelude to melams, it is also used to present solo concert (with a couple of accompanying instruments), in which case it is called [[Kuzhal Pattu]].

The instrument has a wooden body with a conical bore, at the end of which is affixed a [[brass]] bell. The player, who is almost always male, blows through a double reed and closes small holes 
with both hands.

==See also==
* [[Nadaswaram]]
* [[Shehnai]]
* [[Music of Kerala]]

==References==
L.S. Rajagopalan. ''Temple Musical Instruments Of Kerala''. {{ISBN|978-81-246-0544-8}}. D.K. Printworld (P) Ltd

==External links==
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omxlTrNOtx8 Kuzhal video]

{{Double reed}}
{{Indian musical instruments}}

[[Category:Indian musical instruments]]
[[Category:Single oboes with conical bore]]


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