The kaval is a chromatic, end-blown flute used in countries such as Bulgaria, Hungary, Turkey, Albania and Macedonia. It was originally a mountain shepherd’s instrument but is now widely used in folkloric music.
A Kaval Flute
The kaval is usually made of wood, and has 8 playing holes and 4 tone holes. In Bulgaria the tone holes are known as ‘devil’s holes’, from a folkloric tale in which the Devil tries to out-play a shepherd in a musical duel. While the Shepherd is sleeping the Devil tries to ruin the Shepherd’s flute by drilling extra holes in it. However, instead of spoiling the flute these extra holes improve the sound and the Shepherd wins the duel.
Here’s a Bulgarian band that features several fantastic kaval flute players:
Here’s a solo kaval flute player: