Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day

Today is Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day, celebrated every year on July 31st. This day is about appreciating and exploring the unique sounds and rich histories of uncommon musical instruments worldwide.

Music is a crucial element that unites cultures, and we love celebrating those diverse cultures. This day encourages music lovers to discover new instruments, share their favourite rare instruments, and celebrate the diversity of musical expression they bring to our lives. Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day is a beautiful celebration of the unique and often overlooked instruments that add to the rich tapestry of global music. While mainstream instruments like the guitar, piano, and drums often take centre stage, a vast array of lesser-known instruments hold cultural significance and offer distinct sonic experiences.

This day serves as a beautiful reminder to explore the diverse world of music beyond the familiar and to give these lesser-known instruments the recognition they deserve. One such uncommon instrument is the kora, which I deeply love and find fascinating. The kora is a 21-stringed West African harp-like instrument central to the griot tradition of oral history and storytelling.

The kora’s delicate yet resonant sound has captivated audiences worldwide, partly thanks to the virtuosity of musicians like Toumani Diabaté. Diabaté, a renowned Malian kora master, dedicated his life to preserving and innovating upon the traditions of his ancestors, pushing the boundaries of the instrument and collaborating with artists across various genres. His work has brought the beautiful sounds of the kora to a global audience and has inspired many to explore this unique instrument.

Another rare instrument we can share from my own country is the kemençe. The kemençe is a traditional string instrument originating from the Black Sea region of Turkey. It has a distinct, high-pitched sound and is played with a bow. Typically small, with a body made of wood and three strings, the kemençe has deep cultural roots in Anatolian and Turkish music and is often used in both folk and classical Turkish music. It has been a significant part of musical traditions for centuries and continues to be used in modern performances.

The kemençe is known for its expressive sound and the emotional depth it can convey, making it a favourite in both lively folk dances and melancholic tunes. The instrument is played with a short bow, which involves continuous bowing, similar to the continuous drone sound of another uncommon instrument, the hurdy-gurdy. It is often used in traditional dances like the horon, a lively folk dance from the Black Sea region. The kemençe’s unique sound adds a special flavour to these dances and makes them unforgettable.

Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day encourages us to delve deeply into the stories behind these instruments, understand their cultural significance, and appreciate the artistry of those who play them. It’s a day to celebrate the diversity of musical expression and recognize the importance of preserving these unique traditions for future generations. By exploring uncommon instruments, we expand our musical horizons, deepen our cultural understanding, and enrich our appreciation for the vast and varied world of sound. This day reminds us that there is always more to discover in the world of music, and these uncommon instruments hold treasures of sounds and stories waiting to be explored and cherished.

Zekeriya S. Sen
Managing Director @ FEST Travel