Guide to the Oud

A photo of an Oud Instrument

The oud is a stringed instrument that comes from the Lute family. The word ‘oud’ is an Arabic term that represents several varieties of important, as well as natural woods that are used in making this instrument. Although it seems quite similar with the lute, the oud has a shorter neck and … Read more

Guide to the Kemenche

A photo of the kemenche of the Black Sea

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

Guide to the Kutiyapi

A photo of a Maguindanao kutiyapi with okkir motifs.

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

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 Autoharp

A photo of a modern autoharp

The autoharp is part of the chorded zither family that features a series of chord bars attached to the instrument’s dampers. When these chord bars are pressed, it muted all the strings rather than creating the desired chord. Initially, the name autoharp was a trademark of a musical instrument company, Oscar Schmidt, … Read more