The Shofar is an ancient musical instrument from the Temple period traditionally made from a ram’s horn but today many also use a kudu horn. The kudu horn comes from Yemenite tradition as rams were not available in Yemin. The horn itself is hollowed out and a hole is created at the narrow end for a mouthpiece. While the tone cannot be changed, different notes are played during the Rosh Hashanah prayers.

The shofar was a common instrument in Temple times, used when going into war, at special times throughout the year, and even in King David’s orchestra. Today, it is only used every weekday during the Hebrew month leading up to Rosh Hashanah, on Rosh Hashanah itself, and Yom Kippur. Some use it throughout the year during special occasions, such as when people move to Israel or when Israeli soldiers return from war. It is said when Mashiach, the Messiah, comes, the shofar will be blown and heard all over the world. Over Rosh Hashanah, the shofar is blown 100 times- in a series of different notes. These notes are “Shevarim”- three short sounds, “Teruah”- nine very short notes, “Tekiah”- a long note, and “Tekiah Gedola”- one very long note.