They are a polyphonic wind instrument with a beating reed...

This instrument of very ancient origins is capable of producing polyphony and is played using the circular breathing technique. It is constructed using different types of reeds, such as Arundo donax and Arundo pliniana.

Launeddas are a family of instruments and there are various types (see Iscandula - Various types of launeddas). The instrument consists of three reeds of different sizes and thickness, each with a reed on top:

 

• Bass (basciu or tumbu): The longest reed, which provides a single note, the tonic on which the entire instrument is tuned (“pedal” or “bordone” note).

• Mancosa manna: This reed produces the notes of the accompaniment and is tied with impeciated string to the bass, forming the “croba.”

• Mancosedda: This reed, free, produces the notes of the melody.

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The reeds, also made of cane, are simple, beating and excising in a single cut to the knot. Four rectangular holes are carved on the mancosa and mancosedda at predetermined distances for fingering the musical notes. A fifth hole, called “arreffinu,” is drilled in the end of the reeds. Tuning is done by weighting or lightening the reeds with the help of beeswax.

 

Launeddas represent not only a musical instrument but also a symbol of Sardinian culture, with a history dating back millennia. Although circular breathing is a complex technique, the real difficulty in playing the Launeddas lies in the coordinated management