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The hang drum produces mesmerizing tunes, perfect for meditation and relaxing songs.
From the majestic sound of African drums to the ethereal whisper of the Chinese guzheng, our world sparkles with the rhythm and melody of a thousand instruments. But in this magnificent symphony, some instruments remain hidden in quiet corners, their notes unheard and their stories untold. Today, on World Music Day, we look at five lesser-known instruments from around the world, which are just as magical as their more popular counterparts.
1) Hang Drum
The hang drum, also known as the “hang”, is a musical instrument that originated in Switzerland. This UFO-like structure was introduced in 2000 by inventors Felix Rohner and Sabina Scherer. Made from two half steel shells, the hang drum produces dreamy melodies that echo the sounds of steel drums and bells.
2) Kora
The kora is a unique 21-string lute, bridge and harp native to West Africa. An important ceremonial instrument of the Mandinka people, the kora is a large gourd cut in half and covered with cowhide as a resonator. A beautiful blend of rhythm and polyphony, the kora serves as a bridge between the familiarity of the harp and the exoticism of African music.
The kora is an important instrument in Mandinka ceremonies.
3) Nose whistle
The nose flute is found primarily in Pacific Island cultures, especially Hawaii and Polynesia, and has a unique technique for playing it: it is played with the nose. Breathing through the nose resonates the flute, producing a soft, gentle tone. There are many different versions around the world, but the Polynesian versions, carved from bamboo, are some of the most visually and aurally fascinating.
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4) Zampogna
The Italian zampogna is a type of bagpipe, an ancient instrument dating back to Roman times. The zampogna consists of two chanters (pipes that play the melody) and several drones (pipes that provide a constant pitch). The zampogna’s sound is rich and vibrant, evoking festivals of rural history and the communal dancing that traditionally accompanied them.
The Italian zampogna is a type of bagpipe, an ancient instrument that dates back to Roman times.
5) Mbira
A lesser known instrument native to Africa is the mbira, a thumb piano deeply rooted in the musical traditions of the Shona people of Zimbabwe. It consists of metal tines housed in a wooden resonator and plucked with the thumbs. The hypnotic sound of the mbira plays an important role in spiritual ceremonies and social gatherings.
The world of music is as vast and diverse as the world itself. Music harmonizes different cultures, histories and emotions to create a global symphony and sing a song of unity. By exploring lesser known instruments, we not only discover new sounds, but also delve into unfamiliar stories and traditions to gain a deeper understanding of the human story. So keep playing and keep listening.
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