MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS OF THE MONGOL EMPIRE

The Mongol Empire, one of history’s largest contiguous empires spanning much of Eurasia in the 13th and 14th centuries, had a rich and diverse musical tradition. The instruments used during this period reflected the nomadic lifestyle, cultural exchanges, and spiritual practices of the Mongol people. Mongol music was an integral part of their social, spiritual, and ceremonial life, with instruments used in rituals, storytelling, entertainment, and communication.

1. String Instruments
2. a) Morin Khuur (Horsehead Fiddle):

• Description: The morin khuur, often considered the most iconic Mongolian instrument, is a two-stringed bowed instrument with a carved horsehead at the top of its neck. The body is typically made from wood, covered with animal hide, and strings traditionally made from horsehair.
• Playing Technique: Played with a bow, the morin khuur produces a rich, haunting sound, akin to the human voice. Musicians create varying tones by pressing the strings with their fingers while using the bow across the strings.
• Sound: Its sound is melodic, resonant, and evocative of the vast Mongolian steppes. It often mimics the sounds of nature, such as galloping horses or the wind.
• History: Originating from the nomadic herders of the steppes, the morin khuur is steeped in folklore, often associated with horse culture.
• Occasions: It was played during rituals, storytelling, and ceremonies, often accompanying long-song (urtyn duu) performances, which were slow-paced and deeply emotional.

1. b) Shudraga (Long-necked Lute):

• Description: A three-stringed lute with a long neck and a small, circular or oval body, typically made from wood and animal skin.
• Playing Technique: Strings were plucked or strummed with the fingers.
• Sound: The shudraga has a soft, mellow tone, making it ideal for intimate settings.
• History: Influenced by Central Asian instruments, it was popular among traveling bards who performed epics and folk tales.
• Occasions: Used in home entertainment and by itinerant musicians to recount Mongol legends and history.

2. Wind Instruments
3. a) Tsuur (Mongolian Flute):

• Description: The tsuur is an end-blown flute made from wood, with three finger holes and a narrow mouthpiece. It often required the player to use circular breathing.
• Playing Technique: Players would blow into the flute while simultaneously humming, creating a dual-tone effect that blended the flute’s melodic sound with the vocal drone.
• Sound: Its sound is high-pitched, ethereal, and evocative of nature. It often imitated the sounds of birds or flowing rivers.
• History: The tsuur is considered one of the oldest instruments in Mongolia, deeply connected to shamanistic rituals and the nomadic herders’ lifestyle.
• Occasions: Frequently used in spiritual practices and to communicate with spirits, it also accompanied solo performances or small gatherings.

1. b) Buree (Horn or Trumpet):

• Description: A large, metal or wooden trumpet-like instrument, often ornately decorated.
• Playing Technique: Blown into with force, similar to other brass instruments.
• Sound: Loud and commanding, the buree produced a deep, resonant sound.
• History: Borrowed from Tibetan and Central Asian cultures, the buree was adapted for Mongolian ceremonial use.
• Occasions: Used during military parades, religious ceremonies, and large gatherings to announce the presence of nobles or leaders.

3. Percussion Instruments
4. a) Damar (Drum):

• Description: A small, handheld drum made with wooden frames and covered with animal hide.
• Playing Technique: Played by striking with hands or sticks, it produced rhythmic beats.
• Sound: It had a deep, resonant, and sometimes sharp sound, depending on the size and material.
• History: Used in various cultural rituals, it often symbolized the heartbeat of the Earth in shamanistic practices.
• Occasions: Common in both religious ceremonies, particularly shamanic trance rituals, and military events to set the pace for soldiers.

1. b) Tuur (Frame Drum):

• Description: A large, circular drum with a wooden frame, covered in tightly stretched animal skin.
• Playing Technique: Played with sticks or the hands, producing a resonant, booming sound.
• Sound: Loud and thunderous, often mimicking the sounds of galloping horses or rolling thunder.
• History: The tuur has deep shamanistic roots and was believed to help shamans communicate with the spirit world.
• Occasions: Integral in religious rituals, particularly in invoking spirits and during healing ceremonies.

4. Miscellaneous Instruments
5. a) Jaw Harp (Khun Tuur):

• Description: A small, handheld instrument made from metal or wood, with a flexible reed in the center.
• Playing Technique: Placed against the teeth and plucked with a finger while adjusting the shape of the mouth to alter the sound.
• Sound: A twanging, rhythmic sound that could be melodic and hypnotic.
• History: A portable instrument, it was popular among herders as it could be easily carried.
• Occasions: Played for personal entertainment and to pass the time during long travels or while tending livestock.

1. b) Cymbals and Bells:

• Description: Made of metal, these instruments were often small and ornately designed.
• Playing Technique: Cymbals were clashed together, and bells were shaken or struck.
• Sound: Bright and resonant, often used to punctuate music or add rhythm.
• History: Likely influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and used in both religious and secular contexts.
• Occasions: Commonly found in Buddhist rituals and celebratory events.