This jew’s harp is similar to Hmong jew’s harps. Made in North Vietnam, they have been played in traditional music for many years.

It consists of a strip of brass in which a thin central blade has been partially cut to produce the appropriate vibration. This making process is a precise, delicate one that demands experienced craftsmanship.

This particular model has a special fish-shape design. Its frame is significantly thicker than its Hmong relative’s, which gives it a different sound (with more low overtones) and makes it more sturdy.

The instrument is held gently against the player's lips while his/her other hand plucks the tip of the reed back and forth in a soft movement. Yet we recommend to use mainly forward strokes with the thumb.

A “fish” jew’s harp is slightly lower pitched than a simple one, but its sound remains very bright. This is an easy instrument to play that gives full satisfaction to both beginners and more advanced musicians who seek for high quality instruments.

Details
Delivered in its natural wood box
Length: about 5.1 in
Weight: about 10 g

NB: not suitable for children under 10

See other instruments from Asia! Find jew’s harp learning material