Sopile

The traditional instrument from Krk island, Sopila, is a wooden horn with double reed, similar to oboe or shawn. The bigger version is called “male” while the smaller and thinner version is “female” and it produces higher tones. They both have six holes and are always played in pairs, by the scale of six tones. The scale is called the Istrian scale because of its origin. The characteristic high-pitched sound that produces might seem off-key. They are a part of the folk tradition of island Krk and Kvarner region, while in Istria they are called Roženice. Sopile are often accompanied by singing and dancing. In the past, they were played at weddings, gatherings, and festive occasions, while today they are played on folk festivals.