Jaw harps, also referred to as mouth harps, juice harps, or Jew's harps, are musical instruments that belong to the percussion family. They consist of a metal or bamboo frame with a flexible metal or bamboo tongue attached, often shaped like a horseshoe. They are played by placing the frame between one's teeth and using the mouth and throat as a resonating chamber.
When played, the musician plucks the flexible tongue with their finger, causing it to vibrate and produce a distinct sound. The pitch of the sound can be altered by manipulating the shape of the mouth, changing the size of the oral cavity, and using different playing techniques.
Jaw harps have a long history and are found in various cultures around the world, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. They have been used for centuries as both solo instruments and in ensembles, often providing a rhythmic accompaniment to other instruments.
These instruments are known for their unique, twangy sound that can be both percussive and melodic, with a characteristic "boing" or "buzz" quality. Despite their simple construction, jaw harps can produce a surprising range of tones and timbres, making them versatile and expressive instruments in the right hands.
In contemporary music, jaw harps can be found in various genres, including folk, world music, and experimental compositions. They continue to captivate audiences with their unusual sound and the fascinating technique required to play them.
