June 2009

Gongs Used In Ancient China

We usually associate gongs with China. Actually, a gong is an East and Southeast Asian musical instrument in the form of a flat metal disc that is hit with a mallet to make a sound. There are three types of this instrument: suspended, bossed, and bowl.

Arabs Introduced the Oud to Europe

The pear-shaped stringed instrument the oud is believed to be the western lutes predecessor. It does not have frets. This musical instrument is still being played in Arabia, Armenia, Greece, Iran, Israel, and Turkey.

Irelands Frame Drum the Bodhran

Bodhran is the name given to an Irish frame drum that measures 10 to 26 inches in diameter. Its sides are typically three-and-half to eight inches deep. Its head is made from calf, deer, goat, greyhound, horse, or sheep skin, but goat is the usual choice. Through a secret method, the head is cleaned and treated, then stretched over a shell, glued, tacked, and dried.

Conga: From Africa to the Americas

From Africa, the ancient musical instrument the conga wound its way to Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. It was originally just a solid hollowed-out log with animal skin fastened to it. In an assortment of sizes and shapes, this instrument produces different sounds.

The Complex Rhythms of African Drums

African drums play a large part in African music. Most African music is dependent on drum playing. African music is typified by a playing style that is intensely rhythmic.

Bagpipes Of the World

They are usually associated with the Scottish Highlands, but the origin of bagpipes is very old with versions in many parts of the world. This musical instrument belongs to the aero phone family of instruments. It produces sound by fill the bag with air which is blown out and controlled with the hands.