Kanun Qanun

The Qanun Kanun is a fascinating instrument. It has a heart-touching sound, yet with a sophisticated attitude. The Kanun, also known as Qanun, is played across the Middle East, Central Asia, and North Africa. It is an incredibly versatile instrument, often described as the "piano" of the east. At any concert of Arabic or Turkish music, the Kanun is always in the front, thrilling the audience with its sound.

The Kanun's parts

The Kanun is an ancient harp played on the lap. It has 3.5 octaves and endless options of sound possible by the unique concept of "Mandals" (Turkish) or "Orav" (Arabic) that allow the player to change the pitch of the single string.

Interestingly, the kanun bridge 'sits' on a layer of cow skin. The idea behind this is to make the sound warmer. However, in the last decade, synthetic skin is becoming more popular. The sound is not that different, and its durability is much better.

The woods that the kanun is made of, decide a lot of its sound. Traditionally the top of the Kanun is made of Sycamore. Some modern makers like to use Spruce wood as well. Oakwood is the most common wood for the pegbox, that's due to its strength.

Tips for buying a Kanun

Looking for a Kanun for sale? The Kanun is an extraordinary instrument that will let you begin your journey into Middle Eastern music. However, you will find it can be quite an expensive instrument. Do your choices wisely, as there are many parameters to take into account. Make sure the instrument is tested by professional musicians to ensure it is up to performance standards.

Kanun Makers

We are offering kanuns from today’s best makers: Mustafa Saglam and Cankaya. These are the most trusted Kanun makers in Turkey today. You can be assured that the level of quality of these instruments is of top standard.

Mustafa Saglam is a very experienced luthier from Ankara. His Kanuns are world-famous and are actually the industry's standards for a quality instrument.

Cankaya is an old firm from Ankara, that specializes in making classical traditional Turkish instruments. Many teachers recommend their instruments as a solid option.

Ordering a Kanun online

• We offer shipping with PVF or Dupont Strings and all the accessories required are included. Accessories include picks, rings, and a tuning wrench. This means you will be ready to use the instrument as soon as it arrives.
• The Qanun mandals are perfectly set up so it is easy for those who are buying their first Kanun to get started.
• A Kanun should be carefully packed with the required knowledgeand materials. We use a double-layer carton and use German packing materials, ensuring that the shipping goes smoothly.

Read more about how to choose Kanun in our tutorial: 10 tips to choosing Turkish Kanun. We collected 10 tips from Kanun players and have them say to us the most important points when you are about to purchase one. We also sell Kanun accessories and Kanun strings in case you are in need.