Denis Loncaric
When delving into the rich tapestry of world music, the musical instruments that start with N offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and historical significance of music.
These instruments, many of which have ancient origins, span across various regions, from the resonant sounds of the South Indian Nadaswaram to the lyrical melodies of the Middle Eastern Nai.
Their construction and appearance are as diverse as their origins; whether it’s the unique keyed design of the Swedish Nyckelharpa or the simplistic beauty of the Pacific Island Nose Flute.
Each instrument, with its distinctive sound and technique, tells a story of its people, traditions, and the times they’ve lived through.
Their existence is not merely about producing sound but is deeply embedded in rituals, celebrations, and the very fabric of societies they hail from.
List of Musical Instruments Start with N
Nadaswaram (or Nagaswaram)
A traditional wind instrument from South India, similar to the shehnai but larger and with a louder sound.
Origin and History
The Nadaswaram, also known as Nagaswaram, is a traditional wind instrument that originated in South India. Its history dates back centuries and is deeply rooted in the region’s temple and wedding ceremonies.
Construction and Appearance
The Nadaswaram is made of a type of black wood and is quite long, roughly comparable to the size of an alpine horn. At one end, it has a double reed mouthpiece, and at the other, a large flaring bell. Along its length, there are seven finger holes, with additional smaller holes for pitch adjustment.
Sound and Technique
This instrument is known for its powerful and resonant sound, which can be heard over long distances. To play the Nadaswaram, musicians blow into the double reed mouthpiece, producing a continuous sound.
By covering the finger holes in various combinations, different notes and melodies are produced. Its sound is rich and can be both vibrant and melodic.
Cultural Significance
The Nadaswaram holds immense cultural significance in South India. It’s an essential part of Hindu temple rituals and is often played during processions and special occasions, especially weddings.
Its sound is considered auspicious and is believed to ward off evil spirits. In many South Indian ceremonies, it’s often paired with the Thavil, a percussion instrument, producing a combination that’s both rhythmic and melodic.
Nai (or Nay)
An ancient end-blown flute predominantly played in Middle Eastern countries.
Origin and History
The Nai, also known as Nay, is an ancient end-blown flute that has its roots in the Middle East. It’s one of the oldest musical instruments still in use, with evidence suggesting it’s been around for more than 4,000 years.
Construction and Appearance
Made from a single piece of hollow reed or cane, the Nai is a long, slender tube with finger holes. Typically, it has between six to eight holes along its length. One end is sharpened and slightly flared, which is where players blow into.
Sound and Technique
The sound of the Nai is hauntingly beautiful, evoking images of desert landscapes and ancient tales. It produces a soft, ethereal tone.
To play the Nai, you hold it diagonally and blow across the sharpened edge, similar to how you’d blow across the top of a bottle. By covering the finger holes in various combinations, you can produce different notes.
Cultural Significance
The Nai has deep cultural ties to the Middle East. It’s often associated with Sufi music and meditation, symbolizing a spiritual journey and the human longing for a connection with the divine.
Its sound is also commonly heard in traditional Middle Eastern folk music and has become emblematic of the region’s rich musical heritage.
Nyckelharpa
A traditional Swedish stringed instrument that uses a set of keys to change the pitch, producing a unique resonance.
Origin and History
The Nyckelharpa is a traditional stringed instrument that comes from Sweden. Its roots trace back to medieval times, with early illustrations of the instrument dating as far back as the 14th century.
Construction and Appearance
Imagine a violin but a bit bulkier with keys sticking out from its side. That’s the Nyckelharpa. Made primarily of wood, it has a series of strings stretched across its body.
Along one side, you’ll see a set of wooden keys. These keys, when pressed, change the pitch of the strings. Additionally, it has a set of ‘sympathetic’ strings that resonate but aren’t directly played, giving the instrument its distinctive sound.
Sound and Technique
The Nyckelharpa produces a resonant and melodic tone, somewhat similar to a fiddle but with a richer echo due to those sympathetic strings. To play, you’d use a bow, just like a violin, and press the keys to alter the sound. This combination of bowing and key-pressing produces its unique melodies.
Cultural Significance
In Sweden, the Nyckelharpa is a symbol of national pride and cultural heritage. It had a bit of a revival in the 20th century and is now not only played in traditional Swedish music but also in modern fusion genres.
Each year, enthusiasts gather at the Nyckelharpa Folk School in Sweden to learn and celebrate this unique instrument.
Nal
A cylindrical drum is used in traditional Indian music, similar to the tabla but with a higher pitch.
Origin and History
The Nal is a traditional drum from North India. While its exact origins are somewhat blurry, it’s believed to have been in use for several centuries, especially in folk and devotional music contexts.
Construction and Appearance
Picture a small cylindrical drum, narrower and taller than a bongo. That’s the Nal for you. Typically made of wood or metal, it has drumheads on both ends, usually made from animal skin or synthetic materials.
Sound and Technique
The Nal produces a sharp, high-pitched sound, different from the deep tones of larger drums. To play the Nal, you’d use your hands, striking the drumheads in various rhythms and patterns. The exact sound can vary based on the tension of the drumheads and how you strike them.
Cultural Significance
In North India, the Nal is often associated with traditional folk music and dance. It’s not as commonly seen in classical settings as some other Indian drums but remains an integral part of rural and folk celebrations. Its vibrant sound is perfect for lively festivities and gatherings.
Ngoni (or N’goni)
A traditional stringed instrument from West Africa, which is a precursor to the banjo.
Origin and History
The Ngoni, sometimes spelled N’goni, is a stringed instrument that comes from West Africa. It’s pretty old and is often considered an ancestor to the modern banjo.
We’re talking about an instrument that’s been strummed for centuries, with its tales woven into the history of West African communities.
Construction and Appearance
Imagine a small wooden canoe with strings. That’s the basic shape of the Ngoni. It has a wooden body (sometimes covered with animal skin) and a neck that sticks out. Strung across it are various numbers of strings, which can range from four to even ten, depending on the type of Ngoni.
Sound and Technique
The sound of the Ngoni is bright and rhythmic. You play it by plucking the strings with your fingers. Depending on how and where you pluck, you’ll get different tones and rhythms. It’s kind of like playing a guitar but with its own distinct African vibe.
Cultural Significance
The Ngoni is a storyteller’s instrument in West Africa. It’s deeply intertwined with griot traditions, where musicians, or griots, use it to sing tales of ancestry, history, and community events. It’s not just about music; it’s about preserving stories and passing them down through generations.
Nose Flute
A small flute played by blowing air through the nostrils is common in some Pacific Island cultures.
Origin and History
The Nose Flute is not exclusive to one region; in fact, different versions of it have been found across various cultures.
Notably, it’s seen in Pacific Islands like Polynesia and the Philippines, but also among Native American tribes. It’s been used for quite a long time, often in intimate or ceremonial settings.
Construction and Appearance
Think of a simple, small flute, but instead of blowing into it with your mouth, you use your nose. That’s the Nose Flute for you. It’s often made from bamboo or wood and is designed in such a way that the player blows air from one nostril, while the other nostril is closed.
Sound and Technique
The sound of the Nose Flute is soft and gentle, sometimes described as hauntingly beautiful. Playing it involves closing one nostril and blowing gently through the other into the flute’s hole.
By adjusting the force of your breath and covering the flute’s holes, you produce different notes.
Cultural Significance
The Nose Flute often holds romantic connotations, especially in the Pacific Islands. In some cultures, it was played to serenade loved ones or to communicate affection.
In others, it had a more ceremonial role, used in specific rituals or dances. It’s a deeply personal instrument, and its melodies are reflections of the heart.
Nyatiti
An eight-stringed lyre from the Luo community in Kenya.
Origin and History
The Nyatiti is a traditional stringed instrument that originates from the Luo community in Kenya. It’s been a part of their culture for centuries, and its melodies have echoed through many Kenyan tales and songs.
Construction and Appearance
Picture a small harp or a lyre, and you’re getting close to how the Nyatiti looks. It’s made primarily of wood and has eight strings. The instrument is handheld and is often adorned with beads or other decorative items.
Sound and Technique
The sound of the Nyatiti is rhythmic and melodious. Players pluck the strings with their fingers, often accompanying the tunes with vocals. The technique involves a combination of plucking and strumming, and players usually sit down with the Nyatiti resting on their laps.
Cultural Significance
In the Luo culture, the Nyatiti is more than just an instrument; it’s a symbol of heritage. It’s often played during ceremonies, storytelling sessions, or dances.
Nyatiti music has influenced modern Kenyan music, and the instrument remains a proud emblem of Luo’s cultural identity.
A quick reminder: If you are interested in buying any kind of instrument, here’s the newest tool for musical instrument price comparison to get the best prices.
My name is Denis. I am a drummer, percussionist, music enthusiast, and blogger. Drums have been my passion for 15 years now. My idea is to write about the things I like and I am interested in. I want to share my drum passion with fellow musicians who walk, talk, and breathe drums.
