Hmong Brass Jaw Harp

TAEC’s brass jaw harps (or ncas) have been crafted by local Hmong makers in Laos. These unique musical instruments come with a protective bamboo cover and decorative hand-embroidered ornament. Compact and portable, they make the perfect gift for music lovers and instrument collectors.

The jaw harp is a popular instrument used around the world. The player can modify the sound by moving their tongue or the shape of the mouth. The Hmong can play the jaw harp to reproduce most vowels, consonants, and tones of the spoken Hmong language. In the past, the instrument was very popular for courting as the player could share his feelings of love in a discreet way. 

Learn more about the jaw harp and other musical instruments of Laos in TAEC’s exhibition book: Voices of the Wind: Traditional Instruments in Laos

DIMENSIONS: 13x1cm

*Please note that each ornament is a different colour and may not reflect the exact one photographed.

SKU: 542-3-14