Kyl kyyak

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**Kyl kyyak**
**Kıl Kıyak**
Classification

Bowed instruments Continuous pitch instruments
Related instruments
Gadulka Gudok Gusle Rebab Kamancheh The lyra of Crete Kobyz Shichepshin

The kyl kyyak (sometimes spelt kyl kiak and sometimes without the 'kyl') is a stringed musical instrument used in Kyrgyz music. The instrument is carved from a single piece of wood (typically apricot) and typically measures 60-70cm. It has 2 strings, one to provide melody and the other resonance. The kyl kyyak is played vertically with a bow and can be played on horseback. The strings and bow are normally made from horse hair and many instruments feature a carved horse's head. This all reflects the importance of the horse in Kyrgyz rural culture ('kyl' translates as 'horsetail.')