Technical standards in the construction and repair of the Azerbaijani kamancha: An organological study

Abstract

This study presents a systematic organological examination of the professional Azerbaijani kamancha, detailing its structural components, construction principles, and acoustic functions. The analysis demonstrates that each part of the instrument including the mulberry-wood bowl, the neck and pegbox configuration, the tension-bearing spike, the simgir anchoring system, the fish-skin membrane, and the dual-bridge structure plays a critical role in ensuring tonal stability and performance quality. The findings show that precise material selection, proportional measurements, and balanced tension distribution are essential, as even small deviations in wall thickness, bridge height, or neck alignment can significantly affect resonance, timbre, and playability. By documenting the kamancha’s construction parameters in a standardized and replicable format, this research contributes to the preservation of traditional craftsmanship and provides a technical foundation for future restoration and reconstruction efforts. The study ultimately highlights how traditional luthiery integrates craftsmanship, acoustic reasoning, and empirical observation to maintain the cultural and sonic identity of the instrument.