Craftsmanship and performing art of balaban/mey

The balaban is a traditional woodwind instrument distinguished by its soft, velvety tone. Crafted typically from plum or apricot wood and treated with natural oils, it consists of a body, a regulator clip, and a wide, flat double reed. The instrument plays a significant role in Azerbaijani musical culture, featuring prominently in folk festivities, weddings, and concerts both as a solo and as an accompanying instrument.