The term "arghool" refers to a specific type of musical instrument commonly used in folk and traditional music of North Africa and the Middle East. Also known as "argul," "argoul," or "mezwed," it is essentially a woodwind instrument resembling a flute or a reed pipe.
Traditionally, an arghool is made of two parallel pipes, one of which is narrower and shorter than the other. The longer pipe, known as the "male" pipe, produces a deep, resonating bass sound, while the shorter pipe, called the "female" pipe, generates a higher pitched tone. These pipes are often made from reed or bamboo, and they are usually bound together using wax or string.
The arghool is played by blowing air into the mouthpiece, while simultaneously covering and uncovering the finger holes along the length of the pipes to modulate the sound. This allows the musician to produce melodies and different pitches, creating a distinctive and enchanting sound.
The arghool is widely used in various musical genres across North Africa and the Middle East, including traditional Bedouin music, Sufi music, and even modern genres like pop and rock. Its haunting and melodic tones add a unique and evocative texture to the music of these regions.
In recent years, efforts have been made to incorporate the arghool into contemporary music scenes worldwide, promoting its rich cultural heritage and expanding its reach beyond its traditional origins.
