Three Instruments That’ll Change Everything You Know About Music!
Everyone has some affiliation with music, and it varies for people depending on what instruments they prefer listening to. Then some instruments speak right to your soul, but for this, you need to have the right instruments.
Traditional instruments wield an extraordinary power when being played. The tune they produce is so sensual and can make you feel things you may have never felt otherwise. The three instruments about to change your perception of music are Oud, Pantam, and Didgeridoo.
If you’ve been waiting to learn more about these instruments, then you have landed at the right place. We’re just as excited as you to show you how these three instruments are unique and different from conventional instruments.
The Arabic Oud
The oud instrument originates from the Middle East, and people use it to create music that the Arab people culturally affiliate with. The name oud comes from a wood tied to its agar tree.
This instrument is known as the backbone of all Arabic music. You will always hear the Oud in the background within the Middle East and all the music or dramas produced. This instrument is known for being unique since it enhances the emotions you’re already feeling.
What Are Some Ways That This Instrument Is Different:
- It has no frets and also comes with a tinier neck
- It has a lower pitch
- The Oud produces a more vibrant sound
Types Of Oud
There are three main types of Oud, but these all differ based on geography
- Arabian Oud
- Turkish Oud
- Persian Oud or Barbat
Playing the oud requires absolute skill and will make you experience music from an entirely different perspective
By playing this instrument, you get the chance to create and listen to music indulged in the melody. It also allows you to express your emotions through the instrument from a completely different angle.
Learn more about using picks for oud and choosing the right oud case.
Pantam
Pantam or the ‘hang drum’ is a melodic percussion instrument that vibrates as a whole to produce unique and beautiful melodies.
An interesting fact about the name of pantam is that the term “Pantam” is a blend of “Ghatam” and “Steel Pan”. An Israeli Hang distributor used the term “Pantam” for the first time.
Although, the term Pantam was brought into use very late, but instruments of a similar kind were being used in different parts of the world. For example, Ghatam was a very popular musical instrument in South India.
Historical Relevance
It was the late 1990s when a hand percussionist, along with other fellows, came up with merging the South Indian Ghatam and steel pan to make a unique and relaxing sound. And as you can tell, the experiment was a great success.
Notes Of Pantam
The instrument has multiple notes depending on the type of Pantam you get, and this trait makes it even more relaxing and mindful. Not only that, but it is also a lot easier to learn for beginners compared to other instruments.
Different notes of Pantam combine to make unique and relaxing tunes.
Didgeridoo
Didgeridoo is a wind instrument, and the magic lies in your mouth. Playing this instrument requires you to create a continuous vibration from your lips. At the same time, you’ll also need to use circular breathing to ensure that there are no interruptions while playing the didgeridoo.
The aboriginal Australians are commended and recognized for creating this instrument which creates indigenous music widely enjoyed by the Australian people.
The Didgeridoo comes in a cylindrical shape, and its size ranges from 1 meter to 3 meters. Its length is linked to its pitch, so the longer it is, the lower the pitch would be too. The didgeridoo is also made from wood, which sets it apart from a trumpet.
There are three types of Didgeridoo:
Traditional
They are created from hardwoods, specifically the eucalyptus tree, which is prevalent in Northern Australia.
Modern
These modern didgeridoos are either made from native hardwood or non-native. They can also be made from glass, metal, clay, P.V.C. piping, and other materials.
For Decorations
People usually paint these to enhance the look of the instrument.
The instrument also has a strong cultural affiliation for the aboriginals in Australia. This instrument used to be played during ceremonial events, dances, and other entertainment.
A fun fact of playing the didgeridoo is that it can help reduce snoring by strengthening the airway muscles.
Final Thoughts
True music enthusiasts know; anything with a note that makes a tune and touches your soul is called music. The above-mentioned instruments surely connect you to the core basic and traditional musical instruments.
The absence of any technology and innovation of such soothing and relaxing is a miracle, whether it is traditional Arabic Oud, Blend of Steelpan, or South Indian Ghatam called Pantam or Didgeridoo. Such Masterpieces are not just instruments, and they are precious resources of the rich history of music.