Kazoos

The kazoo is a simple musical instrument from the group of membranophones. It works much like the old technique of comb-blowing: it sings or hums to a membrane, has been distorted by their vibrations the sound, so a slightly saxophonartiger sound is produced.

Kazoos are commonly found in a characteristic form: a 10 - 12 cm long, slightly rectangular tube that tapers towards the end pointed, but still open. The tube sits a round, semi-open bracket, under a parchment cone rests loosely. But there are also Kazoos in various forms, often inspired by other instruments. The membrane holder is then attached above or the side.

Kazoos are made of different materials. The most common and cheapest is plastic, which highlights the typical squeaky sound yet. Kazoos metal sound brighter and are more stable, but are more expensive. Kazoos of wood are relatively noble and have a warm, mellow sound.

A kazoo is not a wind instrument in the traditional sense. It is not blown, but hineingesungen. With his own voice the little parchment membrane is made to vibrate. The result is a quäkiger, nasal, distorted sound. The pitch is up to the hineingesungenen tone.

Kazoos are precursors of it for several centuries in Africa. While there was in the 20s of last century real Kazoo Orchestra and the instrument was used as a melody, it does at present is usually only a part as a musical instrument or effect "gag". (Source: Wiki)