![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/64/%E0%B4%95%E0%B5%81%E0%B4%B4%E0%B4%B2%E0%B5%81%E0%B4%82_%E0%B4%9A%E0%B5%86%E0%B4%A3%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%9F%E0%B4%AF%E0%B5%81%E0%B4%82.jpg/220px-%E0%B4%95%E0%B5%81%E0%B4%B4%E0%B4%B2%E0%B5%81%E0%B4%82_%E0%B4%9A%E0%B5%86%E0%B4%A3%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%9F%E0%B4%AF%E0%B5%81%E0%B4%82.jpg)
The kuzhal is a traditional double reed wind instrument used in the south Indian state of Kerala. It is similar in construction to a 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
[edit]References
[edit]L.S. Rajagopalan. Temple Musical Instruments Of Kerala. ISBN 978-81-246-0544-8. D.K. Printworld (P) Ltd
External links
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