10 Unconventional Musical Instruments

Theremin

Invented by Russian physicist Lev Termen (Leon Theremin) in 1920, the theremin is one of the first electronic musical instruments. It was originally a physics experiment, but its unique mysterious sound quickly found its way into music, especially in 1950s science fiction films. It is controlled by moving your hands around the two antennas, one changing the pitch, the other the volume. The player does not even have to touch the instrument, creating a "playing in the air" effect. If you don't have a real theremin, you can try an effect that mimics its characteristic sound. The guitar effect allows you to achieve similar ethereal tones without the need to control a traditional theremin.

Kalimba

The Kalimba is a modernized version of the traditional African instrument, the mbira, which originated in Zimbabwe, Africa. This instrument was popularized by ethnomusicologist Hugh Tracey in the 1950s. The kalimba consists of a wooden board with attached metal slats that are sounded by strumming with the thumbs. While the original mbira is an important part of religious ceremonies, weddings, and social events in Africa, the kalimba has spread throughout the world primarily as an instrument for entertainment, relaxation, and meditation.

Didgeridoo

The didgeridoo is a traditional wind musical instrument of the Aboriginal people of Australia, where it is traditionally made from eucalyptus wood. It is considered to be the oldest musical instrument in the world. The player blows into it through a mouthpiece usually made of beeswax, using a 'circular breathing' technique to produce deep, vibrating tones.

Hang Drum

The Hang Drum (also handpan), resembling a UFO saucer, originated in Switzerland in the early 21st century as a result of experimentation with metal percussion instruments. Its hypnotic sound quickly gained popularity around the world. It is played by gently tapping it with the fingers and palms, producing ethereal melodic tones. It is often used for relaxation music and meditation.

Ocarina

The ocarina is an ancient wind instrument with a round or egg-shaped body, considered one of the oldest musical instruments. It originates from China and is also popular in South America and Europe. Originally made of fired clay or porcelain, modern ocarinas can also be made from metal, wood, or glass. Ocarinas are often beautifully hand-decorated according to their region of origin. They gained special popularity thanks to The Legend of Zelda video game series. It is played by blowing into a mouthpiece and covering finger holes to change pitch.

Stylophone

The stylophone was first introduced to the market by Brian Jarvis in 1968. With a retro sound that is widely used in pop and electronic music, this mini synthesizer has become an icon. It is played by touching and moving a stylus across a metal surface, with each segment of the instrument playing a different note. It is particularly popular among fans of pop and experimental music. The stylus has also been used occasionally by professional musicians such as John Lennon, Kraftwerk and the legendary David Bowie, who used it in the song "Space Oddity", thus contributing to its popularity.

Cajon

The cajón, translated from Spanish as box, originated in Peru, where it was originally used by Afro-Peruvian slaves as an alternative to traditional drums, which had to be burned. Today it is popular in a variety of musical styles, including flamenco and pop or acoustic music. It is played by sitting on the instrument and striking the front with the hands or brushes.

Rainstick

The rainstick originates from South America, where it was used in rituals to summon rain. Traditionally made from hollowed-out cacti, it is filled with small stones or seeds. When tilted, the contents fall slowly, creating a soothing sound reminiscent of falling rain.

Tongue Drum

This modern percussion instrument was inspired by the Hang Drum. Developed in the late 20th century, the Tongue Drum is popular in meditation and therapeutic music. It is played by gently striking metal tongues with fingers or mallets, producing harmonic resonant tones.

Kazoo

The kazoo was invented in the 19th century in the USA as a simple and fun instrument for enhancing musical expression. Its roots trace back to African traditional instruments. The player hums into the instrument, vibrating a membrane that amplifies and distorts the voice into a playful, almost comical sound. It is perfect for casual musical fun. Jimi Hendrix used a kazoo in Crosstown Traffic, giving the song its distinctive sound. Even on a simple kazoo, you can play a proper rock track, for example an energetic Linkin Park song with an unconventional sound.