ABOUT THE INSTRUMENT

Handcrafted metal jaw harp with excellent sound in D tuning, type "dan moi". A typical Vietnamese instrument, suitable for beginner jaw harp players. Unlike standard jaw harps, it does not need to be inserted into the mouth or pressed against the teeth. The jaw harp is played by gently striking it with a stick in a motion away from the instrument using a string attached to the tongue.

• Length: 16 cm

INTERESTING FACTS

The jaw harp, a very simple musical instrument in terms of construction, was especially popular among wandering musicians and folk artists. It usually consists of a metal body with a flexible tongue in the center, which, when placed near the mouth, held properly with the lips and plucked with a finger, produces a typical buzzing sound. This instrument is found in various cultures under different names – in English-speaking countries, it is known as the "jew's harp" or "mouth harp", while in German-speaking areas it is called the "Maultrommel". Experienced players can create impressive melodies and rhythms by changing the shape of the oral cavity and varying the intensity of plucking, making this seemingly simple instrument a fascinating musical tool with a unique character.