Learn the Ney
Easy - Efficient - clear
Lesson 1: Introduction
In oriental music, the Ney is a fundamental musical instrument, very rich in sound and sensation. It is very rare to listen to a concert of oriental music without distinguishing the presence and the charm of this instrument. The Ney makes it possible to express the depth of feelings, it makes the soul speak and vibrate...
Physical characterization of Ney.
The Ney has a cylindrical shape open on both sides (figure a). The high side is called Mabssam. This part is in direct contact with the player's lips. We blow the area on the side of Mabssam to generate the sound (figure b).
The length of the Ney varies between 37 and 68 cm depending on the type of Ney. The Ney Nawa (also called Ney de Sol) is 44.5cm long while the Ney de Doka (also called Ney de Re) is 60cm long. The Ney Doka is the most used Ney. To start with the Ney it is advisable to start with a Ney Doka.
Why does a player use several Ney? >>> We use several Ney to transpose the melody played towards the highest or lowest pitch.
- Learn Ney
The Ney sound is produced through the air column vibration in the Ney. For different Ney lengths the frequency at which the area vibrates changes. A Ney of length 60 cm generates the note DO as fundamental (All the holes are closed), a Ney of 45 cm generates the note G as the fundamental note (All the holes are closed).
By blowing the air at the edge of Mabssam, one can excite the modes of sound vibration in the Ney. Closing or opening the holes changes the length of the column of vibrating area accordingly the frequency of vibration, which defines the musical note being played.
La Position corporelle de joueur de Ney
The correct body position allows the player to play comfortably for a long time and blow the ney easily. The Ney player should be seated in a moderate and comfortable position. Head up, face forward and hands up.
