5 Unusual Music Instruments You've Probably Never Heard Of

Music has always been a universal language, transcending cultures and boundaries. While most of us are familiar with popular music instruments like the guitar, piano, and violin, the world is filled with a plethora of unique and unusual instruments that create equally mesmerizing sounds. In this article, we will explore five lesser-known music instruments that showcase the diversity and ingenuity of musical expression.

1. The Theremin: Playing Without Touching

What is the Theremin?

Invented by Russian physicist Léon Theremin in 1920, the Theremin is one of the few music instruments that is played without physical contact. The instrument consists of two metal antennas that sense the position of the player's hands, one controlling pitch and the other volume.

How Does It Work?

The Theremin generates electromagnetic fields around its antennas. The pitch is controlled by moving one hand closer to or farther from the vertical antenna, while the other hand controls the volume by moving closer to or farther from the horizontal loop antenna. This creates an eerie, ethereal sound that has been used in various genres, particularly in science fiction films.

Why It's Unique

The Theremin's uniqueness lies in its touchless playstyle and its ability to produce continuous glides between notes, creating a distinctive, otherworldly sound. It is a testament to the creativity and innovation in the world of music instruments.

2. The Hang Drum: A Modern Percussive Marvel

Origin and Creation

The Hang Drum, also known simply as the Hang, was developed in Switzerland in the year 2000 by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer. It is a percussion instrument made from two half-shells of steel that are glued together to form a UFO-like shape.

Playing the Hang Drum

The Hang Drum is played with the hands, and its design allows for a wide range of tones and harmonics. Players can produce melodic rhythms by striking various areas of the drum, each of which is tuned to different notes. The central note, known as the "Ding," is surrounded by a circle of seven or eight tone fields, allowing for both rhythmic and melodic playing.

Unique Features

The Hang Drum's soothing, resonant sound makes it a favorite among street performers and meditative music enthusiasts. Its unique design and sound have quickly earned it a place among notable music instruments despite its relatively recent invention.

3. The Glass Armonica: Hauntingly Beautiful

Historical Background

The Glass Armonica, invented by Benjamin Franklin in 1761, is a unique instrument made from a series of glass bowls or goblets of different sizes, mounted on a spindle and rotated by a foot pedal. Each bowl is tuned to a different pitch, and the instrument is played by touching the rims with wet fingers.

How It Produces Sound

When the player's wet fingers touch the rims of the spinning glass bowls, they create friction, causing the bowls to vibrate and produce sound. The Glass Armonica's ethereal, haunting tones have captivated audiences for centuries and have been used in classical compositions by Mozart and Beethoven.

Significance

The Glass Armonica's distinctive sound and historical significance make it a fascinating addition to the world of music instruments. Its delicate, ghostly tones can evoke a range of emotions, from tranquility to melancholy.

4. The Hydraulophone: Making Music with Water

What is the Hydraulophone?

The Hydraulophone is a water-based musical instrument invented by Steve Mann. It consists of a series of water jets arranged in a keyboard-like layout. The instrument is played by blocking and unblocking these jets with the fingers, which alters the flow of water and produces sound.

Playing Technique

Players create music by covering different water jets with their fingers, similar to playing a traditional keyboard. The interaction between water and the player's touch generates a variety of sounds, from smooth and melodic to rhythmic and percussive.

Why It Stands Out

The Hydraulophone is unique because it combines elements of both a musical instrument and a water feature. It offers a tactile and sensory experience unlike any other, making it a standout in the world of music instruments.

5. The Hurdy-Gurdy: A Medieval Marvel

Origins and History

The Hurdy-Gurdy is a stringed instrument that dates back to medieval times. It produces sound by turning a crank attached to a wheel, which rubs against the strings, much like a violin bow. Keys are pressed to change the pitch of the strings.

How It Works

Turning the crank sets the wheel in motion, causing it to rub against the strings. The player presses keys on the keyboard to change the pitch, allowing for both melody and drone notes to be played simultaneously. The instrument often features a buzzing bridge, known as the "dog" or "trompette," which adds a rhythmic, percussive sound.

Unique Characteristics

The Hurdy-Gurdy's combination of melody and drone, along with its unique buzzing sound, makes it a fascinating and versatile instrument. Its historical significance and distinctive sound have kept it relevant and beloved among folk and traditional musicians.

Final Words

These five unusual music instruments – the Theremin, Hang Drum, Glass Armonica, Hydraulophone, and Hurdy-Gurdy – demonstrate the incredible diversity and creativity in the world of music. Each instrument offers a unique sound and playing experience, contributing to the rich tapestry of global musical expression.

If you're inspired to explore the world of music instruments and discover something unique, visit Rhythm Music Shop. Serving Markham, Richmond Hill, North York, Scarborough, and the rest of the GTA, Rhythm Music Shop offers a wide variety of instruments to fuel your musical journey. Come in today and find the perfect instrument for you!