Cimpoi

The cimpoi is a Romanian folk woodwind musical instrument and a regional variety of the bagpipe. It is an aerophone consisting of an air reservoir (bag) and several pipes: a blowpipe, a drone, and a melody pipe (chanter).

The cimpoi is considered an instrument of local origin, traditionally associated with the territories of present-day Romania and the Republic of Moldova. The first written references to the instrument date from the 16th century. In the past, it was widespread throughout most regions and, alongside the fluier, served as one of the principal instruments of shepherds and an important element of rural festivities. By the early 21st century, the tradition of playing the cimpoi has survived mainly in certain regions (Oltenia, Dobruja, Hunedoara, and Moldavia), although the instrument continues to be used in folk ensembles.