Bagpipe

This traditional Lithuanian musical instrument consists of a few different parts. The body of dūda – is a large bag made of animal skin. Inside this bag are three more parts: a whistle and two birbynės (first one is for producing a melody and the second one for a one tone play along). Bagpipes were very popular in the Eastern Lithuania. Some historical sources reveal information about professional musicians who would walk around with tamed bears dancing to the bagpipe music. Professional bagpipers – nomad musicians – would gather in the Eastern Lithuania to participate in special festivities with their numbers reaching up to 200 people. Although bagpipes not only attracted nomads – settled farmers would also enjoy this instrument by playing songs and dance music.