Mouth harp Traditional - Tuned

Our tuned jaw harps are handmade from brass. The size of this slightly simpler version is 10x4 centimetres, which is a little larger than the most commonly occurring finds from the Viking Age. The size gives a good sound with slightly faster vibrations. The jaw harp comes in several keys, choose the one that best suits your music.

The jaw harp, also known as the mouth harp and jew's harp, is one of the world's oldest instruments. It has spread from its origin in the Ural Mountains across large parts of the world in various forms. The jaw harp arrived in Europe during the Iron Age/early Middle Ages, and finds from the Viking Age exist in, among other places, Denmark and Norway. On Gotland, a bronze jaw harp from the Iron Age has been found.

Our jaw harps are hand-forged by members of the Nepalese musician caste. For thousands of years they have made their living playing traditional music. Their traditions also include making their own instruments. In modern society, interest in traditional music performed live is declining. The musicians are therefore today a vulnerable population group in an already poor country. Every jaw harp sold supports their efforts to continue living in accordance with their traditions.