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What Is the Mouth Harp?

The mouth harp is a musical instrument made of hard materials such as metal bamboo or bone that produces sound through vibration inside the mouth. It has a flexible tongue that is plucked with the finger to create vibrations. The oral cavity functions like a resonating chamber that amplifies the sound.

History

The history of the mouth harp is very ancient. The earliest examples were found in the Shaanxi region of China around 4000 years ago. Over time it spread to Central Asia and from there to Anatolia. Turkic communities such as the Kazakhs Tuvans Yakuts and Uzbeks used this instrument in shamanic rituals and folk music.

Where and How Is It Used?

• In the Turkic world it is known as "temir komuz" or "xomus".
• In Europe it is called "Jew’s harp" and in India it is known as "morsing".
• Metal versions are most common but bamboo and bone versions are also found in Tibet and Nepal.
• The mouth harp is a rhythmic and timbral instrument that produces sound effects and harmonics rather than distinct melodies.

How Is It Played?

1. The instrument is held steady with the hand.
2. The flexible tongue is plucked and released with the finger.
3. Different sounds are produced by changing the shape of the oral cavity and the position of the throat.