Tonals

Tonals are a type of musical instrument that produce sound through the vibration of a metal tongue or reed that is set into motion by a stream of air. They are commonly used in traditional music from various cultures around the world, including Africa, Asia, and the Americas. The sound produced by tonals is typically bright and percussive, with a distinctive tone quality that is often described as "buzzy" or "hissing."

The most well-known type of tonal is the mbira, a thumb piano from Africa that is played by plucking the strings with the thumbs. Other examples of tonals include the jaw harp, which is played by moving the jaw to vibrate a reed, and the sheng, a Chinese mouth organ that is played by blowing air through a reed. Tonals are often used in ensemble settings, with multiple players creating a rich, textured sound.

The construction of tonals varies depending on the instrument and its cultural context. However, they typically consist of a resonating chamber, a reed or tongue, and a mechanism for producing the sound, such as a mouthpiece or a set of strings. The materials used to construct tonals can also vary widely, from wood and metal to bamboo and hide.

Tonals have a long history in traditional music, and they continue to be an important part of many musical cultures today. They are often used in both solo and ensemble settings, and they can be played in a variety of musical styles, from folk and world music to experimental and contemporary music. The distinctive sound of tonals has also made them a popular choice for use in film and television soundtracks, as well as in advertising and other commercial applications.