kwaenggari

The kwaenggari is a traditional Korean percussion instrument. It is a small, hand-held gong made of brass. The kwaenggari is typically played with a wooden mallet and produces a bright, resonant sound. Its name is an onomatopoeia, imitating the ringing sound it makes.

The kwaenggari is often used in Korean folk music, particularly in ensembles known as samul nori and pungmul nori. These ensembles typically feature four instruments: the kkwaenggwari, the jing (a larger gong), the janggu (an hourglass-shaped drum), and the buk (a barrel drum). The kwaenggari's sharp, high-pitched sound provides a melodic and rhythmic accent within these performances. It is also frequently used in shamanistic rituals and celebratory occasions.

The size and thickness of the kwaenggari can vary, influencing its timbre and volume. Players can manipulate the sound by striking the gong in different ways, such as with the edge or the center of the mallet, or by partially muffling the sound with their hand. This allows for a range of expressive possibilities. The instrument's portability and distinct sound have made it an enduring element of Korean musical tradition.