Yomkwo (Idiochord raft zither)
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Alternative TitleYom kwo? |
InstrumentRaft zither/Zithers/Strings/Musical Instrument ; Raft zither |
Instrument FamilyStrings |
Date MadeProbably 19th century |
DescriptionTechnical description: Traditionally made from dried cereal stalks laid parallel and bound together. This instrument is a bamboo raft of 26 sticks bound together by 5 transverse sticks across the rear and 2 with decorative plaiting at either end on the front (nos. 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20). 11 of the sticks have had slivers sliced and lifted over 2 stick bridges to form “strings,” some of which are overwound to lower the pitch. Performance technique: A solo melody instrument played with the thumbs using a strumming technique. Played standing up vertically, balanced on the performer’s knee. Generally a solo instrument used during beer-drinking or other entertainment. Can also be performed as part of an instrumental ensemble with arched harp, scarper, and gourd rattles. Children also make untuned raft zithers out of cornstalks during harvest time. Repertory generally consists of dance-songs. Historical sources and dispersal: Possibly a yomkwo, otherwise known as an idiochord raft zither of the Birom people of Nigeria. Likely originated in Central Africa, although it is also known in West Africa, East Africa, and South Asia. |
NotesP.R. Cooke, 1995. |
Measurementslength 525; width 215. |
CollectionMIMEd ; Reid Collection |
Accession Number0744 |