The Circassian kemenche, called "Şikepşine" in the Circassian language, consists of three parts: the body, the soundboard, and auxiliary materials. Ash wood is most commonly used in its construction. Horsehair from male horses is also used as a material. Mechanical strings are not used. This instrument is generally played by men.
The Circassian kemenche is a very suitable instrument for lamenting music. It is often used to tell stories, laments, songs, or express sad situations, wars, and interesting events in people's lives, with the words being set to melody by the Circassian kemenche.
There is a master craftsman of the Circassian kemenche in our city. This person is also registered by our Ministry as a "Bearer of Intangible Cultural Heritage".