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Construction and modernization of Kundun Pentatonic xylophone

2016; Acoustical Society of America; Volume: 140; Issue: 4_Supplement Linguagem: Inglês

10.1121/1.4970573

1520-9024

Tobi E. Kemewerigha, Stephen G. Onwubiko,

Music Technology and Sound Studies

This thesis is all about the constructional techniques and modernization of the resonant qualities of Kundun musical instrument from Birom in Plateau State of Nigeria. A discussion of the traditional Xylophone based on the field work conducted in Birom ethnic group understanding a kundun instrument maker, was made. The structure of this Xylophone highlights both the tone qualities and also the use of the cow-horn as pipes which amplifies the resonance of the slab. The construction and methods used here embodied traditional technology together with modern innovations, with the aim of improving the tone and aesthetic qualities of the instrument. This report also offered guides on the correct choice of wood and other materials for construction. Special attention was given to the acoustic behavior of kundun and the particular problems of the tropical climate conditions, to which the instrument could be exposed and to the overall tone quality of the instrument during performance. Some scientific approaches, in terms of the accurate measurements and amplification of sound, were taken into cognizance so as to enhance the knowledge of the construction of kundun musical instruments and its aesthetic quality.