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Σμυρναίικος μπάλος
This tune from Smyrna (Asia Minor), based on the rhythm of a light-hearted, lilting couple’s dance in 2/4 meter –the well-known balos, which is particularly popular in the islands– begins with a slow introduction for solo kanun (kanonaki).
The kanun is a direct descendant of the Byzantine psaltery (psalterion) and a distant forerunner of Western spinets and harpsichords. It consists of a flat, trapezoid-shaped soundbox strung with enough strings to produce three octaves plus three additional notes.
The instrument is capable of producing a wide range of microtones. Its tuning can be adapted to the rich variety of Oriental modes and can follow modal changes within the same piece. The strings, made of catgut or nylon, are plucked with plectrums attached to the index fingers of the performer.
Markos Ph. Dragoumis (1974)
Studio recording (1974).
Flute
Violin
Kanun
Lute
Goblet drum
