[Harp-L] Re: Ancestor of the harmonica



There's a wonderful Vietnamese reed instrument called the Dan Moi which is related both to jaw harp and harmonica. As Joe L. describes, the pointed reed is cut out of the reed plate and left attached at one end. Behind this end an extension of the "reed" projects out so that it can be plucked as with the jaw harp. You enclose the brass plate with your lips and create the appropriate air column in your throat. It sounds great and is like a superior jaw harp to play except that the edges of the reed are rather sharp. I was fascinated by the elegant design and it's one of the most simple and efficient reeds imaginable. In Vietnam they also make similar instruments out of bamboo. Just look for Dan Moi in Wikipedia,

Steve Baker
www.stevebaker.de
www.bluesculture.com







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