**The Zurna and Davul of Cyprus in Rare Authentic Wedding Ritual**
Nicosia, Cyprus - The 29th Cultural Festival of the University of Cyprus is set to conclude its first part on July 14 with a unique musical performance titled "The Zurna and Davul of Cyprus." This event will take place at the historic Axiothea Mansion in Nicosia and features two musicians who are among the last practitioners of the traditional Cypriot repertoire for the zurna and davul.
The performance is presented by the Cyprus Music Archive, founded by Dr. Nicoletta Demetriou, and aims to showcase the authentic sounds of these instruments as they were played before the influence of Turkish music became prominent in Cyprus post-1974. The musicians, Kemal Deveci and Aziz Kahraman, will guide the audience through a complete musical ritual associated with Cypriot weddings, offering a glimpse into a rich cultural heritage that is deeply intertwined with the island's collective memory and social life.
The zurna, a woodwind instrument, and the davul, a large drum, have long been integral to traditional Cypriot music, particularly in ceremonial contexts such as weddings. The performance will not only feature the music but also provide explanatory commentary from Dr. Demetriou. Her insights will help audiences understand the historical, social, and functional significance of the repertoire, enriching the experience beyond mere entertainment.
This event is particularly significant as it highlights the preservation of a musical tradition that has faced challenges over the years. The Cyprus Music Archive has been actively involved in documenting and preserving this repertoire, completing field recordings in 2025. A record and accompanying publication presenting the results of this research are expected to be released in the coming months, further contributing to the understanding and appreciation of this traditional music.
The performance is scheduled to begin at 8:30 PM, and attendees can expect an immersive experience that connects them to the sounds and rituals of Cyprus's past. For more information, interested individuals can contact the University of Cyprus or visit their website.
As the festival draws to a close, "The Zurna and Davul of Cyprus" serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and the role of music in maintaining the identity and heritage of Cyprus.