Articles

Talking Drums

If Drums Could Talk

Talking Drums are a fascinating and versatile family of percussive instruments with a long history as both a rhythmic and communicative device. While they may take their name mainly for...

If Drums Could Talk

Talking Drums are a fascinating and versatile family of percussive instruments with a long history as both a rhythmic and communicative device. While they may take their name mainly for...

Shakuhachi

Shakuhachi – From Buddhist Suizen to Modern Jap...

On its surface, the shakuhachi appears quite simple, and is traditionally made of bamboo. In its most basic form, it is a tube with finger holes: four holes on the...

Shakuhachi – From Buddhist Suizen to Modern Jap...

On its surface, the shakuhachi appears quite simple, and is traditionally made of bamboo. In its most basic form, it is a tube with finger holes: four holes on the...

Wooden Flute Care and Maintenance

Caring for your Wooden Flute

Flutes and whistles made of wood merit a bit more care and maintenance than other wind instruments. Wood can be sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature, and may warp...

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Caring for your Wooden Flute

Flutes and whistles made of wood merit a bit more care and maintenance than other wind instruments. Wood can be sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature, and may warp...

2 comments
Divje Babe Flute

The History and Mystery of the Pennywhistle

The pennywhistle has a long history, with somewhat mysterious origins. While its design is rather simple – with six holes for the fingers to cover and a fipple-style mouthpiece –...

The History and Mystery of the Pennywhistle

The pennywhistle has a long history, with somewhat mysterious origins. While its design is rather simple – with six holes for the fingers to cover and a fipple-style mouthpiece –...

Golden Lyre of Ur Replica

Harps from Around the World

What do Egypt, Ireland, Kenya, Myanmar, Paraguay, Israel, Venezuela, and Wales have in common? Each one of these boasts a unique form of harp as their national instrument... In fact,...

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Harps from Around the World

What do Egypt, Ireland, Kenya, Myanmar, Paraguay, Israel, Venezuela, and Wales have in common? Each one of these boasts a unique form of harp as their national instrument... In fact,...

1 comment
Handpans are Everywhere

Handpans Are Everywhere

If you've been paying attention, you've seen handpans explode in popularity in recent years. They can be heard on commercials, movie soundtracks and it seems like on just about every NPR podcast. The...

Handpans Are Everywhere

If you've been paying attention, you've seen handpans explode in popularity in recent years. They can be heard on commercials, movie soundtracks and it seems like on just about every NPR podcast. The...