The zurna is one of the ancient double-reed instruments in Armenia, used in the folk music of many cultures and countries, especially in Azerbaijan, Turkey, Iran, Georgia, and Central Asia regions. The zurna has been played continually for 4,500–5,000 years, making it one of the oldest musical instruments still in use in the world. The zurna still has an important place in the Armenian musical culture and can be heard at weddings and festivals. The dhol often accompanies the zurna. The zurna is made of apricot wood, has eight finger-holes in front of the instrument and one thumb-hole in the back. The principal features of the zurna are the body, a reed, and a cap. The reed, called “Ramish” in Armenian, is technically made up of two parts: a reed and a metal mouthpiece. The zurna has a bright and fulgurating tone, a very loud sound and is suitable for both solo performances and ensembles.

Learn how to play the zurna through one of our comprehensive methods that takes you through a progressive approach, addressing technique, musicality, and so much more.

Program Information:

The Farabius Academy of Music provides one-on-one instruction and group sessions on multiple Armenian instruments. All students are taught basic instrumental techniques, postures, technical exercises, and playing Armenian repertoires.

Each online lesson takes place between one teacher and one student for either 30, 45 or 60 minutes. For children's sessions, parents can attend their child's classes.

Goals:

Our goal is the development of our students to their highest musical level through private lessons. Therefore, creating the correct foundation for technique and appropriate repertoire is of utmost important thing. Our amazing zurna faculty takes care of utilizing elements of different teaching methods that work best for each student. Beginner students start with the fundamentals, like how to hold the zurna correctly, relaxed posture, how to get sound out of it, breath control, finger placement, reading music, and learning simple songs. Intermediate and advanced students continue to progress with increased proficiency in techniques and significant Armenian repertoire. Our zurna curriculum covers the following subjects:

• Note reading and recognition
• Armenian traditional ornaments
• Counting, rhythm reading
• Technique (staccato, trill, vibration, and dynamics)
• Memorization
• Ear training
   

Levels / Ages offered:

The Farabius Academy of Music provides online private zurna study at all levels and ages. Students in a private study can learn with no prior experience, all the way to extensive professional experience, and we will ensure you have an enjoyable experience.

Repertoire:

Selecting repertoire is one of the most challenging and important tasks that we take on in the development of our students’ musical education. Students at all levels will be given a selection of repertoire from multiple genres of music (Traditional, Folk) to study and perfect.

Important Facts & FAQs

• Highly recommended for students of 9 years or older
• Offered but less recommended for students 8 years or younger
• Extremely useful for children and adult learners
• The most effective format for learning technique and traditional repertoire