3 unique musical instruments that you have probably never heard of 

When we think of musical instruments, our mind usually conjures the images of pianos, guitars, and violins. These instruments have become synonymous with music and are recognized globally. However, there is a whole world of musical instruments beyond these well-known ones that are just as fascinating and capable of creating mesmerising melodies. Some of these instruments are rarely heard of. These instruments are not only unique in their design but also have a fascinating history and cultural significance. From an instrument inspired by African weaver birds to one resembling a serpent, let’s take a journey through some of the most unusual ones.  

Toha (Totem Harp) 
The Toha, also known as the Totem Harp, is an extraordinary musical instrument that draws its inspiration from the cooperative nature of Southern Africa's sociable weaver birds. The design, which reflects the birds' tightly-knit nesting communities, is a remarkable work of art that is visually striking and beautiful to hear. What sets the Toha apart is that it requires two musicians to play it in perfect harmony, much like how sociable weavers work together to construct their nests. The instrument has 22 identically tuned strings on either side of a wooden frame, allowing each musician to pluck the strings with their fingertips or nails, weaving together a unique and synchronized musical experience. Beyond its musical capabilities, the Toha symbolizes community and collaboration too. It has been used in various cultural and musical events in Southern Africa, where musicians come together to play and celebrate the spirit of togetherness. In recent years, the Toha has gained global recognition and popularity, attracting worldwide musicians and enthusiasts fascinated by its unique design and captivating sound. 

The Ðàn tre 
The Ðàn tre is more than just an instrument: It's a symbol of tradition and resilience. Handcrafted by Vietnamese refugee Minh Tam Nguyen, this 23-string bamboo beauty is less than a meter tall and combines elements of both Asian and European music. It is played by both hands where the left hand presses the strings to create different notes, and the right hand plucks the strings with a small pick or with the fingers. But the story behind it is what truly captivates. In 1976, Nguyen invented the instrument while held captive in the 're-education' camps of the Viet Cong, an armed communist organization in South Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, to find a way to soothe his loneliness and sadness. The Ðàn tre became a lifeline for Nguyen, connecting him to the family he was forced to leave behind. In 1982, Nguyen and his son journeyed to Australia, bringing the Ðàn tre with them. But he finally let go of his beloved instrument in 1990, when Nguyen's mother, wife, and three other children arrived in Australia. Donating it to the National Museum of Australia, the Ðàn tre now stands as a testament to the resilience and hope that music can inspire. 

Copper serpent 
You might know about Tuba, an instrument which is often the largest and lowest-pitched instrument in a band or orchestra. Do you also know about its ancestor, the copper serpent? The copper serpent is a brass wind instrument with a curved, snake-like shape played similarly to a flute. This unusual instrument was all the rage in late 16th century France. It was traditionally made from wood bound together by leather. But as time passed, musicians found that copper was a more stable material, and the serpent evolved to be played horizontally rather than vertically. Despite its odd appearance, the serpent has played some iconic roles in music history. Mozart, a Roman composer of the classical period, used the serpent in his opera Ascanio in Alba (1771). Richard Wagner, a German composer, also included it in his famous opera Rienzi (1842). So, if you're ever listening to a film score and hear a strange, deep rumbling sound, it might just be the serpent making an appearance!