What Is This? A Collection of Rare and Unique Musical Instruments from Around the World
It goes without saying, but there are countless musical instruments in the world.
Even just in Japan, there are more than you can count on both hands.
It really makes you think, “What a wide world it is.”
In this article, I’d like to introduce a bunch of rare and unique instruments you don’t often get to see.
If you’re thinking about taking up music as a hobby, this might be the perfect chance to try an instrument you’ve never seen before.
It’s also recommended for gadget lovers!
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[What is this?] A roundup of rare and unique instruments from around the world (1–10)
Hurdy-gurdy
The hurdy-gurdy is a type of string instrument made around the 9th century, also known as a hand-cranked organ.
Its appearance and timbre closely resemble those of a violin.
One difference is the keyboard installed in the center; by operating this keyboard, you can change the pitch.
Although it’s not a very familiar instrument, it’s said that the number of enthusiasts in Europe is quietly growing.
If you’ve grown tired of a regular violin, give the hurdy-gurdy a try.
theremin
This mysterious instrument, both in the sound it produces and the way it’s played, is called the theremin.
Invented by a Russian physicist, it’s said to be the world’s oldest electronic instrument.
Unlike guitars or pianos, which you play by touching them, the theremin is played by moving your hands closer to or farther from the antennas that extend from the instrument.
That makes it very hard to play! But its unique, airy, wavering tone gets more addictive the more you listen.
It’s been used by musicians like American artist Todd Harry Rundgren and, in Japan, Hisashi Imai, the guitarist of BUCK-TICK.
Venova
Many people are probably thinking, “Isn’t there an instrument that’s easier to enjoy playing?” For those people, the Venova is a perfect fit.
The Venova is a new instrument developed by Yamaha in 2017.
It’s played similarly to a recorder, but it can produce a fairly wide range of notes.
Plus, it can be washed with water, so maintenance is super easy.
The Venova also comes in a wide variety of colors, making it a great choice for those who want a sense of originality!
[What is this?] A collection of rare and unique musical instruments from around the world (11–20)
chimbasso
The cimbasso used in Italian opera performances.
That said, many people probably aren’t even aware it exists.
However, the cimbasso’s timbre is used in various free sound effects, so there may actually be more people who’ve heard it than you’d expect.
In appearance, the cimbasso is similar to a trombone, and it feels almost the same to play.
That makes it an easy instrument to try for anyone with wind ensemble experience.
By the way, you can purchase one starting in the 50,000-yen range for more affordable models.
autoharp
Normally, instruments are made with the goal of producing beautiful sound.
But there are instruments that emphasize not producing sound.
That’s the autoharp.
The name is confusing, but it’s neither fully automatic nor a harp.
It’s a stringed instrument with buttons, and by pressing the buttons you can prevent certain strings from sounding.
By the way, the name “autoharp” was originally a registered trademark, but it later came into general use.
Yaiba-haru
Usually, synthesizers generate sounds electronically, but there’s actually an instrument that plays those kinds of timbres acoustically.
It’s called the Yaybahar.
The Turkish musician Görkem Şen reportedly built this instrument as a makeshift creation.
At first glance it looks like nothing more than two drums with strings attached, but in reality it’s based on quite a complex theory.
Görkem Şen has posted videos of himself playing the Yaybahar on his YouTube channel.
If you’re curious, be sure to check it out.
Balalaika
The balalaika is an instrument shaped somewhat like a guitar or a ukulele.
Its delicate, exotically tinged string tone is very soothing.
A traditional Russian folk instrument, it is hugely popular within Russia.
It has a triangular body with a neck like a guitar, and three strings are stretched across it.
There are several types by register, and the bass balalaika can be so large that just holding it is a challenge.
In addition to solo performances, it is often played in ensembles and as accompaniment for dance.