shawm etymology

Etymology:

The word "shawm" is derived from the Old French term "chalemie", which is believed to have originated from the Late Latin "calamus", meaning "reed."

Meaning:

A shawm is a double-reed woodwind instrument with a conical bore and a bell-shaped end. It is played by blowing into a double reed fitted into a metal or wooden mouthpiece called a pirouette.

Origin:

The shawm is one of the oldest known wind instruments, with evidence of its existence dating back to ancient Egypt. It was widely used in Europe during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and was a popular instrument for outdoor performances and military music.

Over time, the shawm evolved into several regional variants, including:

  • The crumhorn: A smaller, sweeter-toned shawm with a curved horn-like shape.
  • The rackett: A shawm with a smaller bell and a single reed.
  • The bombardon: A large, bass shawm with a deep and powerful sound.

In the 18th century, the shawm was largely replaced by the oboe, which had a more refined and expressive sound. However, shawms are still used today in some traditional folk music and early music ensembles.

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