Shamisen Rock

When Japanese strings meet western stylings, the Yoshida Brothers show what it is to rock the shamisen. After the video click here to check out the shamisen solo.

Native American Flute with the Hang Drum

When it comes to music, there are not many instruments more modern than the hang drum, nor as ancient as the Native American flute. Here they are played together in complete harmony, demonstrating a universal truth of timeless cohesion… or maybe just playing some wicked awesome tunes. Whichever you prefer, both are true.

After the video, click here to see the Jeff Ball solo act.

A Didge Unlike Any Other

Perhaps the greatest thing about instrumental music is that the meaning is always open to interpretation. With no words to define the message, instrumental music is entirely subjective not only to the musician, but to the ear of the listener as well.

This is especially true of the didgeridoo, in which each instrument is actually grown from the earth as bamboo, and often hollowed out naturally by termites, making each didge performance a completely unique event. What makes this video even more remarkable is the distinct melody heard throughout, something unusual to most didge music.

After the video, click here to check out another didgeridoo.

Triple Ocarina

While most ocarinas are somewhat limited in range, this certainly can not be said of the triple chambered ocarina. Capable of playing nearly 3 octaves as well as chords, the ability of this little wind instrument is really quite impressive.

After the video of this triple ocarina, Click Here to check out an “inline” style ocarina, and to get a bit more history of the instrument.

Music of the Array Mbira

Just one in a long line of mbira-inspired instruments, the array mbira is a western take on an ancient instrument.

Sacred music instrument of Zimbabwe, the mbira is frequently played at religious ceremonies and social gatherings.  The instrument is common all throughout Africa, and recently western versions have been produced, namely the kalimba and specifically the Hugh Tracey.

After the video, Click Here to view another percussion instrument.