Presentation
La Maison du Duduk® is proud to offer in its catalog the instruments of Karen Mukayelyan, Armenian master luthier specialized in the making of traditional wind instruments such as the Duduk, the Blul, and the Shvi, also known under the pseudonym MKS.
Based between Yerevan and Yeghvard, Karen Mukayelyan has been a key figure in Duduk craftsmanship since 2001. His expertise, recognized both in Armenia and internationally, extends to all traditional wind instruments. His creations are highly appreciated by many renowned professional musicians, including Gevorg Dabaghyan, who appears in a television report entirely dedicated to Karen Mukayelyan (national channel – H1).
In April 2023, Karen Mukayelyan was honored with the title of "Master of the People" (Ժողովրդական Վարպետ), awarded by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Armenia, in recognition of his exceptional craftsmanship and his contribution to Armenian traditional artisanship.
The model "Professional Duduk | MKS" has established itself as a key reference for demanding musicians. It is distinguished by its accuracy across the entire instrument, ease of playing (especially the half-tones), and its warm, deep timbre, making it a preferred choice for both professionals and passionate amateurs.
Characteristics of the craftsman
Karen Mukayelyan’s instruments are known for their sound quality, precision, ease of playing half-tones, and a timbre that remains faithful to the traditional Duduk. His Duduks, influenced by the work of Karlen Matevosyan, are particularly appreciated by musicians accustomed to Matevosyan's instruments, who find a similar playing sensation and adapt to them easily.
Always attentive to musicians, both in Armenia and abroad, he regularly adjusts his models based on field feedback to meet current expectations. His artisanal work, independence, and constant pursuit of improvement have made him one of the most emblematic luthiers in the Duduk world for over twenty years.
His production is entirely handcrafted: Karen Mukayelyan does not use three-axis CNC machines. The wood is shaped by hand using an electric lathe, and the holes are drilled manually with horizontal and vertical drills.
This method offers him great flexibility in design, and it is this artisanal approach that explains the richness and diversity of his instruments: traditional Duduks in all keys, bass Duduks in D, traditional Bluls in D or C, Bluls with Shvi heads, bass Pkus, etc.
These unique variations are not available on large international sales platforms, both due to limited quantities and their higher prices, which are justified by their superior quality and handcrafted value.
Instrument characteristics
- Apricot wood (Prunus armeniaca)
- Wood dried between 1 and 10 years
- Finish: Red (traditional)
- Designed by Karen Mukayelyan | MKS
- "MKS" engraving
- Length: Between 28 and 41 cm depending on the key
- Weight: 90 g
- Supplied with a Premium reed, strength 2 (medium)
Community rating
Accuracy: ★★★★★
Half-tone playability:: ★★★★★
Used by professionals : ★★★★★
Instrument finish quality : ★★★★★
Reed included with the instrument: Premium
Exclusive collaboration with La Maison du Duduk®
Karen Mukayelyan holds a central place within our Maison as our main partner craftsman. This close collaboration allows us to offer a wide range of instruments and keys (Duduks, Shvis, Pkus, Bluls) in limited but carefully selected quantities.
The "Professional Duduk | MKS" is our flagship model, combining artisanal precision and musical performance. We pay particular attention to the behavior of the wood and reeds in humid climates (especially in France) to guarantee optimal and hassle-free use.
This unique collaboration allows La Maison du Duduk® to offer exceptional instruments while providing a variety of keys to meet the needs of each musician.
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To learn more about our rating system, please refer to our dedicated blog article: Choosing your Duduk.
