7 Instruments from Around the World You've Probably Never Heard Of

On this World Music Day, let's explore the enchanting sounds of unique musical instruments from diverse cultures across the globe. As we celebrate the universal language of music, we delve into the melodies of seven extraordinary instruments that you've probably never heard of before. Join us on this musical journey and discover the hidden gems that await.

1. Kora: The Melodious Harp of West Africa

As we commemorate World Music Day, we start our journey with the Kora, a mesmerizing harp-like instrument originating from West Africa. With its large calabash gourd resonator, long neck, and 21 strings made of fishing line, the Kora produces enchanting melodies that have accompanied storytelling and cultural ceremonies for centuries.

2. Hang Drum: The Celestial Sound Sculpture

Next, we encounter the Hang Drum, a celestial sound sculpture that has captured the hearts of musicians and listeners worldwide. Resembling a flying saucer, this percussive instrument creates ethereal tones when struck with the hands. Developed in Switzerland, the Hang Drum invites us to explore its meditative and captivating sounds.

3. Sarangi: The Soulful Bowing Instrument of India

From the rich musical tapestry of India emerges the soulful Sarangi, a bowed instrument with a history steeped in classical music. Crafted from a single block of wood, this instrument features three main playing strings and sympathetic strings that resonate when played. Its resonant and emotive sound has the power to evoke profound emotions in listeners.

4. Didgeridoo: The Resonant Drone of Indigenous Australians

As we continue our musical odyssey, we encounter the Didgeridoo, a mesmerizing wind instrument originating from the Indigenous people of Australia. Crafted from hollowed-out tree trunks or branches, it produces a deep and resonant drone sound. Played by vibrating the lips and utilizing circular breathing, the Didgeridoo holds significant cultural and spiritual importance.

5. Duduk: The Hauntingly Beautiful Armenian Woodwind

From the mystical lands of Armenia comes the hauntingly beautiful Duduk, an ancient double-reed woodwind instrument. Carved from apricot wood, its melancholic tones have mesmerized listeners for centuries. By blowing air through the reed and manipulating the sound with finger holes, musicians create soul-stirring melodies that resonate with the depths of the human spirit.

6. Mbira: The Shimmering Thumb Piano of Zimbabwe

The Mbira, also known as the Thumb Piano, is a traditional instrument from Zimbabwe. Constructed with metal tines attached to a wooden soundboard, it is played by plucking the tines with the thumbs and fingers. The Mbira's ethereal and captivating sound has deep cultural significance in Zimbabwean music, often used in spiritual ceremonies and storytelling.

7. Erhu: The Expressive Chinese Two-Stringed Fiddle

The Erhu is a two-stringed fiddle from China. With a history spanning over a thousand years, it has become one of the most recognizable Chinese instruments. The Erhu consists of a long vertical neck and a resonating chamber covered with snake skin. It is played by bowing the strings with a bow made of horsehair. The Erhu's expressive and melancholic sound makes it a prominent feature in Chinese classical music and folk traditions.

These seven instruments represent a small fraction of the rich tapestry of musical diversity found around the world. They showcase the ingenuity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage of the communities that created them. Exploring the sounds and stories behind these unique instruments can open our minds to the vastness of human creativity and deepen our appreciation for the beauty of music.

On this World Music Day, let us celebrate the universal language of music by embracing the enchanting melodies of these seven extraordinary instruments from around the world. From the mesmerizing sounds of the Kora to the celestial tones of the Hang Drum, from the soulful Sarangi to the resonant drone of the Didgeridoo, from the haunting beauty of the Duduk to the shimmering rhythms of the Mbira, and from the expressive melodies of the Erhu, these instruments take us on a captivating journey through diverse cultures and musical traditions.

As we commemorate World Music Day this week, let these lesser-known instruments inspire us to explore new musical horizons, to embrace the richness of global musical traditions, and to recognize the power of music as a universal force that connects us all. Let us appreciate the skill and artistry of musicians who keep these traditions alive, and let us join together in the joyous celebration of the beauty and diversity of world music.