The chanda, or also known as chenda, is a cylindrical musical instrument that is widely used in some regions of India, like in the state of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. This percussion instrument is most commonly known for its rigid and loud sound. It has two sides, in which the left … Read more
The kemenche or kamancheh is a bottle-shaped instrument that came from the north-eastern Asia Minor bordering the Black Sea. This stringed instrument has a substantial symbolic value and cultural identity for the Pontic Greeks. The name of this instrument came from a Persian origin that means “little bow” or “small bow.” As … Read more
A gong is a musical instrument with a shape of a circular metal bronze disc. This percussion instrument is struck using mallets. The mallets are tended to be felted mallets that are traditionally made out of wood with a bulbous tip. It can also be struck using the drumsticks, although this produces … Read more
Steelpan or also known as steel drum is a percussion instrument that originated in Trinidad and Tobago. Back then, steelpans were built from industrial containers. Today, steelpan manufacturers usually use high-quality steel to construct the instrument. Soloists and small ensembles can play steelpans because they come in different tones, ranges, and timbres. … Read more
The kutiyapi, also known as kudyapi, is a two-stringed boat lute that originated in the Philippines. Some name variations also existdepending on what region it is used. In Maguindanao, this instrument was referred to as ‘kutiapi,’ while the Maranao called this ‘kotyapi.’ At the same time, the Subanon named it ‘kotapi.’ The … Read more
The conga drum is a percussion instrument that originated from Africa. Its exact origin is unknown, but researchers agree that the conga was developed by Cuban people in the late 19th century or early 20th century.It is a single-headed drum that became famous after they were included in Cuban music. Traditional conga … Read more
The wooden fish is a percussion instrument that is made out of a hollow wooden block. Sometimes, a variety of wooden fishes were made of plastics. Buddhist priests usually used this instrument to beat rhythms when they are chanting scriptures. Also known as the Mokugyo, Chinese temple block or wooden bell, this … Read more
The taiko is a Japanese percussion instrument that has contributed to and influenced the musical styles of Japanese music. There are different sizes of taikos. The sizes range from the size of a snare drum to the size of a car. However, the most commonly used taiko was the ‘chu-daiko,’ which is … Read more