Music has always been a realm of creativity, where musicians and inventors push the boundaries of sound and instrument design.
While most people are familiar with pianos, guitars, and violins, there exists a fascinating world of extraordinary musical instruments that challenge traditional concepts and produce mesmerising, otherworldly sounds.
Some rely on electromagnetic fields, others use water or mechanical engineering, while some create haunting and ethereal tones that seem almost magical.
Here are seven unusual musical instruments that you may never have encountered before!
1. The theremin
The theremin is one of the most intriguing and mysterious electronic instruments ever invented. Created in 1920 by Russian physicist Léon Theremin, it produces sound without any physical contact.
Using two metal antennas, one controlling pitch and the other volume, musicians play the theremin by moving their hands through the air.
This results in its signature ghostly, wavering tones, making it popular in science fiction and horror film soundtracks. Its eerie, almost supernatural sound continues to fascinate musicians and audiences alike.
2. The hang drum
Invented in Switzerland in 2000 by Felix Rohner and Sabina Schärer, the hang drum, or handpan, is a bowl-shaped percussion instrument that produces rich, melodic, and harmonic tones when gently struck with the hands.
Unlike traditional drums, its steel surface creates an ethereal, hypnotic sound, making it ideal for meditation, relaxation music, and ambient performances.
The hang drum’s calming, dreamlike tones have made it a favourite among musicians seeking a soothing and expressive instrument.
3. The nyckelharpa
A staple of Swedish folk music, the nyckelharpa dates back to the 14th century.
It resembles a violin, but instead of pressing the strings directly, musicians use wooden keys to change the pitch.
Its rich and haunting sound blends elements of a violin and a hurdy-gurdy, creating a warm, resonant tone.
While it remains popular in Scandinavian traditional music, its unique timbre has also gained recognition in modern folk and world music.
4. The waterphone
The waterphone, invented by Richard Waters in 1968, is an experimental percussive instrument widely used in horror and suspense films due to its eerie, unsettling sound.
It consists of a metal resonating bowl partially filled with water, with metal rods protruding from its sides.
When played with a bow or struck, it produces bizarre, ghostly echoes that shift unpredictably as the water moves.
This instrument is a favourite among Hollywood composers, adding tension to films like Poltergeist and The Matrix. If you’ve ever heard an unsettling cinematic score, chances are a waterphone was involved!
5. The didgeridoo
The didgeridoo is one of the world’s oldest wind instruments, developed over 1,500 years ago by Indigenous Australians.
Traditionally made from hollowed-out eucalyptus wood, it produces a deep, droning sound, sustained through circular breathing—a technique where players inhale through their nose while continuously exhaling through their mouth.
This uninterrupted, hypnotic sound has been used in ceremonial music, storytelling, and healing practises.
Some didgeridoos can reach lengths of over 3 metres (10 feet), creating a deep resonance unlike any other instrument.
6. The marble machine
A true fusion of engineering and music, the Marble Machine was designed by Martin Molin of Wintergatan.
This intricate hand-cranked device operates by guiding over 2,000 rolling marbles through a network of levers, gears, and pulleys, striking a vibraphone, bass, and percussion instruments.
The result is an incredibly intricate, rhythmic performance, where mechanics and music merge in perfect harmony.
While not a traditional instrument, the Marble Machine showcases the limitless creativity that can be applied to music-making.
7. The hydraulophone
The hydraulophone, invented by Steve Mann, is a water-based musical instrument that operates in an entirely unique way.
Instead of using keys or strings, players block streams of flowing water to produce different musical notes.
This instrument creates a smooth, flute-like sound, perfect for experimental performances and music therapy.
Hydraulophones are often installed in public fountains, allowing anyone to create music simply by interacting with the water flow.
Conclusion
From electronic and water-powered inventions to ancient and mechanical marvels, these unusual musical instruments push the boundaries of sound and creativity.
Each one showcases the endless possibilities of music, proving that sound can be made in the most unexpected ways.
Which one fascinated you the most?