The algaita (also spelled alghaita, algayta or algheita) is a double reed wind instrument from the Sahelian region of West-Central Africa that is used by the Bamum, Hausa and Kanuri peoples in Cameroon and Nigeria. Its construction is similar to the oboe-like rhaita and the zurna. The algaita is distinguished from these other instruments by its larger, trumpet-like bell. Instead of keys, it has open holes for fingering, similar to the zurna.
Traditional recordings Music from the Villages of Northeastern Nigeria (Folkways, 1971) "Music of the Cameroon - The Fulani of the North" (Lyrichord 7334)
Use in jazz recordings Yusef Lateef, In Nigeria, (YAL Records, 1983) Yusef Lateef, The African-American Epic Suite (1994)
See also Kakaki Oboe Rhaita Shawm Washint Zurna
References
H.G. Farmer, "The Arab Influence on the Western Soudan." The Musical Standard, 15 November, 1924.
External links Alghaita page