Stella cometa (Canzoni accanto al presepe)

Zampogna refers to the Italian bagpipe tradition, centered on the various double‑chanter, drone bagpipes known collectively as zampogne. Played primarily in southern and central Italy, it is an unmistakable pastoral sound associated with shepherd culture, Christmas novenas, processions, and vigorous southern dance forms. Typical ensembles pair the zampogna with a small conical shawm (ciaramella/piffero) and frame drum (tamburello). The instrument’s continuous drones underpin modal melodies in compound meters (6/8, 9/8, 12/8), from solemn pastorali to driving tarantelle. Across regions (Molise, Lazio/Ciociaria, Campania/Irpinia, Basilicata, Calabria, parts of Sicily), distinct zampogna types (a paro, a chiave, and other local variants) carry highly localized tunings, ornaments, and repertoires. While ancient in root, the modern folk practice crystallized in the early modern era and remains emblematic of Italian seasonal folk music.