A Sound from an Empty Vessel

Hello everyone! I’m really happy that some people read this blog — even if it’s just one or two, I’m truly grateful for that. One of my friends asked me, “The violin has cousins, but does it have a mom or dad?” Well, the origin of string instruments actually starts with the bow harp. It’s similar to the harp we’re familiar with today, but in a shorter version. You could say it’s like the great-great-grandparent of modern string instruments.

But now, we’re moving into a different family background — this time, we’re meeting the percussion family.

Whether you agree with me or not, there’s no denying that any song with a good beat gives you a little rush of thrill! Sure, melodies are sweet and soothing, but when it comes to making your heart race with excitement — a beat a day can truly make your day brighter.

So, who’s the parent behind all these thrilling rhythms? Let’s travel back in time — way back to ancient days — when percussion instruments first came to life. Back then, people used them to catch attention, announce something important, or call for help. The earliest version was quite simple: just a piece of dried calfskin stretched over a hollow frame, played by striking it with a stick. And that humble creation was named “the drum.”

This same concept of percussion has been adapted in so many creative ways around the world. In India, the variety is truly amazing — instruments like the Tabla, Mridangam, Thappattam, Ghatam (made from a clay pot), Dholak, and Kanjira each have their own unique sound and rhythm. Meanwhile, in Western music, we find instruments like drums, bongos, and castanets bringing their own flavor to the beat.

From being used as a notification for  send messages or grab attention, percussion has now evolved into a joyful art — an instrument of fun, energy, and creativity. In fact, almost anything can become a percussion instrument if you have rhythm in your hands — a table, a chair, the floor, or even an empty (or half-empty!) vessel.

One of the most fascinating examples from India is the Jaltarang, where ceramic bowls filled with varying levels of water produce beautiful tones when struck. Even everyday items can surprise you — a bowl of rice inside a closed vessel can turn into Maracas, and two plates clashing together create Cymbals. So yes, it’s true — it’s not just empty vessels that make noise; everything around us has a rhythm waiting to be discovered!

If i want to talk about percussions , it will go for looong book , Kalimba which is now came to our eyes  , And most famous instrument marimba where the apple ringtone came from . Xylophone , most popular among kids !

Ahh, while talking about making beats by table , it gives nostalgia! use a table as a drum and everyone sings , those are nice days! Ok will move on to next family next week !