WOODWINDS

A traditional Hindu instrument believed to have been played by Lord Krishna, the bansuri bamboo flute has only been linked to classic Indian music over the last century.

Although the bansuri usually only has seven holes (one embouchure hole and six finger holes), a special technique can be used to play all twelve semitones and the shrutis (microtones) required in classic Indian music. The instrument is characterised by its warm, wooden tones and both its drawn-out and quick glissandi.