Construction and operation of the Southeast Asian free reed mouth organs. Free

Among the most significant indigenous musical instruments of Southeast Asia are the free reed pipes and mouth organs. Details of the origin and development of these instruments are connected with the history and prehistory of a multitude of ethnic groups. There are several types of these instruments. Results of acoustical studies as well as descriptions of techniques and materials of construction are summarized for three of these types: the free reed pipe with finger holes, the gourd windchest mouth organ, and the Lao raft mouth organ (khaen). The khaen and the gourd pipe employ free reeds mounted in the sides of pipes open at both ends, although in the gourd pipe the player has the option of altering the pitch by closing the bottom of the pipe. The pipe with finger holes may be either side‐blown or end‐blown. These instruments have traditionally been constructed with very simple tools using natural materials, primarily bamboo and wood. Bamboo is often still used for the reeds as well as the pipes, although metal reeds have been common for some time. Traditionally, a black substance resembling beeswax is used as a sealer.