Guide to the Kubing

A photo of the kubing instrument

The kubing is a jaw harp idiophone that is notably used by several Muslim and non-muslim tribes in the Philippines and Indonesia. This instrument is known as one of the oldest instruments in the world. The kubing is made out of a thin bamboo strip or metal strip that is about two … Read more

Guide to the Cornet

A photo of the family of Ophicleide

The cornet is the smallest brass instrument that is a close relative of the trumpet. It is an instrument derived from the post horn, a valveless cylindrical instrument that has a cupped mouth. By the 1830s, Parisians instrument makers have started using a piston valve. Subsequently, cornets appeared in the 19th century … Read more

Guide to Africa’s Talking Drum

A photo of the single-headed dabakan drum

The talking drum is an hourglass-shaped percussion instrument that originated from West Africa. This talking drum, sometimes called Dundun or Gangan, plays an essential role in laying the rhythmic foundation for the lead drums to talk and interact in their environment. Also, this drum holds a significant place in Yoruba culture, folklore, … Read more

Guide to the Mbira

A photo of the mbira instrument

The mbira is an idiophone instrument that is classified under lamellaphone, meaning a small metal plate. Aside from its name, the mbira is also known as finger harp, gourd piano, thumb piano, and zanzu. It is a musical instrument that is mostly used by the Shona people, an ethnic group that is … Read more

Guide to the Langeleik

A photo of the Langeleik

The langeleik is a stringed musical instrument that originated from Norway. Among the several mountains and valleys of Norway, the only areas where the langeleik instrument has a living tradition were the Vardal and Valdres. Most commonly, the langeleik was used for domestic rural music until the 19th century. Afterward, when the … Read more

Guide to the Ukelin

A photo of the ukelin

You probably heard about the ukulele and the violin, but have you heard about the ukelin? One of the most mysterious and unique instruments that were recorded was this instrument called ukelin. It is a combination of a violin and Hawaiian ukulele that became popular in the year 1920s. This bowed psaltery … Read more

Guide to Washtub Bass

A photo of a man playing the tea chess bass

The washtub bass, also known as the gutbucket, is a stringed instrument that was initially used in American folk music. This instrument uses a metal washtub as its resonator and typically has a single string. Interestingly, it is possible to create a washtub bass with four or more strings and tuning pegs. … Read more

Guide to Kazoo

A photo of a metal kazoo

Kazoo is an American tube-formed instrument, with both tube ends uncovered. It can be made of plastic or metal and has a variety of shapes. One end of the tube is flattened, and the other end has a small circular opening. Meanwhile, down on the two-thirds of the instrument, another small hole … Read more