Articles

Demonstration of S-Curve on a Musical Saw (artwork by Alina Larson)

The Musical Saw, a Logging Instrument that Sings

For as long as lumberjacks have been cutting trees with commercially available steel saws, people have been using the saw to make music. Despite its humble origins and mundane appearance,...

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The Musical Saw, a Logging Instrument that Sings

For as long as lumberjacks have been cutting trees with commercially available steel saws, people have been using the saw to make music. Despite its humble origins and mundane appearance,...

1 comment
"The Old Plantation" depiction of banjo-playing slave

Banjo: American Instrument with African Roots

When you hear the familiar twang of a banjo, you may think that there couldn't be a more distinctly American sound. Early design of the banjo blended West African and...

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Banjo: American Instrument with African Roots

When you hear the familiar twang of a banjo, you may think that there couldn't be a more distinctly American sound. Early design of the banjo blended West African and...

2 comments
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 –...