NAGASWARAM

Sanskrit Nagasvaram, double-reed instrument of southern India related to the shawm and oboe. It descended from the Persian surna, by which name it is still known in northern India, and is generally played in pairs, creating the impression of a double oboe. Sometimes several players alternate on the melodic line, which is accompanied by a drone played on the ottu, a type of nagaswaram in which all or most of the holes are closed with wax. Owing to its strong and penetrating tone, the instrument is usually played outdoorse.g., at weddings, processions, festivals, and other occasions that require ceremonial ensemble music. The nagaswaram has gained recognition in the classical repertoire of the southern Indian concert stage.