Jaw Harp
OriginAsia
Year400 BC
FamilyPercussion
About the Jaw Harp
One of the oldest instruments in the world. A metal or bamboo tongue twanged against the teeth. The mouth cavity shapes the tone. Found in every culture on Earth. Over 2,400 years of history. Also known as mouth harp or Jew harp. The overtone series creates the melody.
More Percussion Instruments
Drums
The oldest musical instrument after the human voice. Found in every culture on Earth. The ...
Marimba
Originated in Africa, developed in Central America. Wooden bars with resonator tubes under...
Xylophone
Similar to marimba but with higher pitch and shorter resonators. The name means wood sound...
Vibraphone
Invented by Herman Winterhoff. Metal bars with motor-driven resonators create vibrato. The...