20 Musical Instruments That Start With the Letter N

Music has been an integral part of human civilization for centuries, with various instruments used to create beautiful melodies and rhythms that captivate our hearts and souls. From the classical piano to the modern synthesizer, there is an extensive list of instruments that have been created throughout history. However, some instruments are lesser-known or even obscure, such as those that start with the letter N.

In this article, we explore the fascinating world of musical instruments that start with the letter N. Some of these instruments have roots in ancient cultures and traditions, while others are relatively new inventions. Regardless of their origin, they all share one thing in common: the ability to create unique sounds and melodies that are distinct from other instruments.

Some examples of N instruments include the nyckelharpa, a traditional Swedish instrument that is similar to a violin; the nadaswaram, a double-reed wind instrument from Southern India; and the ngoni, a West African lute-like instrument that is popular in traditional music.

Learning about lesser-known instruments not only expands our knowledge and appreciation of music but also allows us to understand the diverse cultural histories and traditions that have influenced their creation.

So, let’s take a journey into the world of musical instruments that start with the letter N and discover their unique beauty and significance.

1. “Nadaswaram”

Continuing the discussion of musical instruments, we turn now to the nadaswaram. This South Indian wind instrument is similar in design to a flute and produces an enchanting sound capable of captivating audiences around the world. It’s made from bamboo stalks that are fitted together with wax and bound with thread – giving it a distinct character unlike any other instrument out there.

What makes the nadaswaram so special is its versatility; players can use their breath control and finger dexterity to manipulate sound in endless ways. From lively folk songs to slow classical pieces, this traditional instrument can produce a wide range of sounds. Plus, due to its lightweight construction, many people enjoy taking their nadaswaram along on camping trips or picnics – allowing them to share music with friends wherever they go!

The beauty of the nadaswaram lies not only in its ease of play but also its affordability; even amateur musicians can pick one up relatively cheaply compared to most other instruments. And while some may find mastering it difficult at first, those who put in enough practice will discover just how rewarding and captivating this unique device really is. In addition, learning how to play the nadaswaram has been found by experts to be beneficial for mental health as well as physical coordination.

All things considered, it’s clear why the nadaswaram remains such a beloved part of South Asian culture: Its versatile tones allow for all sorts of creative experimentation and exploration – making it an invaluable tool for any aspiring musician looking for something new!

2. “Nagado–Daiko”

The nagado–daiko is another instrument that has been captivating audiences for centuries. This percussion instrument, which originated in Japan, consists of a large barrel drum played with two wooden sticks. The sound created by this traditional device has become synonymous with festivals and celebrations throughout Asia – drawing people together in collective appreciation of its rhythmic beauty.

In contrast to the nadaswaram’s airy tones, the nagado-daiko produces much deeper sounds that are best suited for accompaniment; it can be heard adding texture to many popular Japanese songs today. With its distinct timbre, this type of drum also allows players to explore different techniques such as rolls and flams to better express their artistry.

What really makes the nagado-daiko so special is its versatility; not only does it work well when playing solo pieces but it can also lend itself perfectly for ensemble performances too. As an example, taiko drumming groups have emerged all over the world – creating vibrant sounds through complex patterns of rhythm and movement. Plus, since these drums don’t require any special tuning or maintenance they’re great options even for novice performers looking to get into music quickly!

Whether you’re interested in joining a group or just want something unique to jam out at home, the nagado-daiko presents an exciting opportunity to experience both ancient culture and modern expressionism alike. Its rich history combined with its versatile nature make this traditional instrument one worth exploring further.

3. “Nagara”

In contrast to the nagado-daiko’s vibrantly deep sound, another traditional Japanese instrument known as the nagara offers a much lighter and airier melody. This type of drum consists of two small cylindrical shells that are placed together – with an array of beads or stones in between them. As these objects move around inside, they create a beautiful rustling noise when struck by the player’s hands.

The nagara has been used for centuries within religious ceremonies, though it is now being adapted into modern music performances too. It often appears alongside other instruments such as flutes, shamisens (Japanese lutes), and taiko drums to create complex yet delicate soundsscapes. Plus, due to its size and relative ease of use, this percussion device can be easily taken on tour or played in any environment!

Using different techniques such as dampening and open tones can also bring out unique qualities from this instrument; allowing players to experiment further with their artistry. Unlike many western drums which require intricate tuning before playing, the nagara provides a more effortless approach – making it great for novices who want something simple yet expressive to enjoy at home.

With its captivatingly ethereal tone, the nagara presents an exciting opportunity for musicians looking to explore Asian culture through music. From religious rituals to contemporary events, this versatile instrument allows performers from all backgrounds to appreciate its timeless beauty.

4. “Nai”

Moving away from the nagara, another traditional Japanese instrument is the nai. This bamboo flute has been around since ancient times and was primarily used for ceremonial purposes such as offering prayers to gods or entertaining locals at festivals. It’s also said that this type of music had a calming effect on those who heard it – making it ideal for spiritual celebrations and healing rituals too!

The nai is comprised of five holes which are covered in wax paper to create different notes when blown into by the musician. The sound produced can range from gentle and soothing tones all the way up to high-pitched melodies; depending on how hard the performer blows. There are also two types of these instruments: one with three nodes (to be played solo) and another with four (for group performances).

Nais come in many sizes, though they’re typically smaller than most western flutes – allowing them to be held comfortably in either hand while playing. Unlike other instruments like guitars or pianos, learning how to play this type of flute does not require extensive knowledge about musical theory or notation systems; instead, it mainly focuses on developing good breath control through practice.

This instrument can offer an interesting twist to modern compositions due its unique tone quality and versatility – even experienced players may find themselves experimenting with new sounds as they explore its possibilities! Whether you’re just starting out or simply looking for something special to add to your repertoire, the nai provides an exciting opportunity for musicians who want to bring Asian culture into their music.

5. “Nail Violin”

The nail violin, or Nail Fiddle as it is sometimes called, is a unique instrument of the string variety. It’s main distinction comes from its unconventional construction: instead of traditional strings and tuning keys, nails are used to produce sound on this instrument. The tone quality of this musical device can range from mellow to sharp depending on how well tuned the nails are.

Playing the nail violin requires some technical skill; however, once mastered it provides hours of entertainment for both players and audiences alike. To play the instrument, one must press down the nails with their fingers in order to produce various tones and melodies. Though there may be some resistance felt when pressing down on each nail, the overall experience should remain pleasant throughout.

The distinctiveness of this instrument has made it popular among musicians in many genres including folk, jazz, blues and classical music. It is also an ideal addition to any home studio or stage setup as its size allows for easy transportability without sacrificing sound quality. Furthermore, because these instruments are handmade they can often be customised according to individual taste.

In short, anyone looking for an interesting new way to express themselves musically need look no further than the nail violin- sure to bring out everyone’s inner rockstar!

6. “Nano Harp”

The Nano Harp is an intriguing instrument which offers a unique experience for those looking to explore new sounds. It combines the traditional harp with modern technology, allowing users to play and record music electronically in a whole new way. This exciting innovation has made it popular among both beginners and experienced musicians alike.

One of the great advantages of this instrument is its portability; weighing only two pounds, it can be taken anywhere without sacrificing sound quality or performance capabilities. Additionally, with its built-in USB port, the nano harp allows players to connect directly to their computer in order to access digital tools such as recording software and virtual instruments.

Using the nano harp is simple: there are eight strings which each emit different tones when plucked using one’s fingers or hands. The strings are tuned so that they produce chords when played together, making it easy for even novice musicians to create beautiful melodies right away. Furthermore, specific notes can also be achieved by pressing buttons on either side of the neck while playing a string – giving users more control over what they wish to express musically.

Overall, the nano harp provides a fun yet powerful musical experience that won’t break your bank account or take up too much room in your home studio! Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking to discover their own creative voice through music-making.

7. “Nao”

The NAO is an innovative instrument that offers a unique way of playing music. It’s designed to be used with both hands and feet, offering players unlimited possibilities for creating their own soundscapes. The ergonomic design ensures comfort while allowing for maximum expression in your performance. With its built-in effects, the NAO lets you create layered sounds that can range from subtle background ambience to frenetic rhythms and melodies.

The NAO also features a library of pre-programmed beats which allow users to explore new musical styles without having to learn complicated patterns or techniques. Players can easily add accents and embellishments by simply pressing buttons located on the side panels of the instrument – giving them complete freedom over how they want their song to sound. Additionally, the NAO has an impressive amount of connectivity options so it can be integrated into any existing setup in seconds.

But what makes this instrument truly special is its ability to help people express themselves musically. Its intuitive layout encourages creativity as users are able to craft their own unique sonic palette via various knobs, dials, and sliders located around the unit’s body. Plus, with its compatibility with major digital audio workstations such as Ableton Live, musicians can take full advantage of all the tools available through modern software recording environments.

In short, whether you’re looking for a powerful live performance tool or just something fun to mess around with during your free time, the NAO should definitely be at the top of your list! This incredible device will push your boundaries as a musician and inspire you to reach heights previously thought impossible.

8. “Naqus”

Moving on from the NAO, another innovative instrument that’s gaining traction in the music world is the NAQUS. This electronic musical device has been hailed as an incredibly versatile tool for creating unique soundscapes and exploring new sonic possibilities. It uses a combination of acoustic samples, digital synthesis, and advanced processing techniques to create powerful sounds that will captivate any audience.

The great thing about this instrument is that it can be used both as a live performance tool or in the studio; its intuitive design makes it easy to control either way. With its plethora of knobs, sliders and pads, you can craft whatever kind of soundscape your heart desires – whether you’re looking for something subtle and ambient or energetic and heavy-hitting! Plus, with built-in effects such as chorus, delay, reverb and more, the sound potential here is virtually limitless.

The NAQUS also comes equipped with a library of preloaded loops which let users quickly explore different styles without having to learn complex rhythms or patterns beforehand. Additionally, thanks to its compatibility with popular software like Logic Pro X and Ableton Live 10 Suite Professional Edition (which comes bundled with every purchase), musicians have access to all types of virtual instruments right out of the box – allowing them to further enhance their productions.

Overall then, if you’re seeking an instrument that offers flexibility while still being easy enough for beginners – look no further than the NAQUS! Its intuitive layout ensures quick learning curves so even those who are just starting out shouldn’t have too much trouble getting up-to-speed with this incredible piece of equipment.

9. “Native American Flute”

Stepping away from the electronics, another instrument that has been around for centuries is the Native American flute. Believed to have originated with some of the earliest indigenous peoples in North America, this instrument is often associated with spirituality and connection to nature. The flutes themselves are quite simple – consisting of just a few tubes crafted from wood or clay – but they can produce mesmerizingly beautiful sounds when played properly.

The traditional playing technique involves using both hands to cover each end of the tube while blowing softly into it; however, today many modern players opt for an easier method which involves covering only one end and making use of a set of finger holes on the other side. This makes it much more accessible for people who don’t have prior musical training and allows them to quickly learn basic melodies.

Playing the flute also encourages practitioners to stay mindful and grounded as there’s no room for “mindless” playing – every note must be intentional and well-timed in order to create a harmonious soundscape. Plus, since most traditional songs are based off oral histories rather than written notation, learning how to play these pieces requires deep listening skills – something which can be incredibly valuable even outside of music!

Simply put then: whether you’re looking for a spiritual experience or just want to explore different kinds of music, the Native American flute could make an excellent choice. It provides users with a unique way to connect with their heritage while still being relatively easy to master thanks to its straightforward design.

10. “Natural Trumpet”

For those looking for a slightly different sound, the natural trumpet could be an excellent choice. This instrument has been around since ancient times and is known for producing loud, powerful notes that can cut through any other type of music. Unlike the flute which requires some degree of finesse to play correctly, playing the trumpet is more about having strong lungs and good breath control – it’s something that anyone with enough practice can learn!

Plus, although many people associate trumpets with jazz or classical music, they’re actually quite versatile instruments and can also be used in rock, pop and even hip-hop songs. The sound itself is often described as brash but majestic – giving off an aura of confidence and power whenever played properly.

The natural trumpet does require a certain level of physical strength to use however; because of its size and weight, it will usually take someone multiple weeks (or even months) before they’re able to play it comfortably without pain or fatigue. But if you stick at it, eventually you’ll be rewarded with some truly awe-inspiring sounds!

No matter your background or musical goals though, learning how to play the natural trumpet can provide endless hours of enjoyment. With its bold yet graceful tone plus all the benefits that come from mastering such a powerful instrument, there are few better options out there!

11. “Nay”

The nay is another ancient instrument that has been used for centuries in many different cultures. Its unique sound, produced by a flute-like reed and circular breath pressure, adds an air of mystery to any performance. The tone of the nay can range from gentle and soothing to loud and powerful – depending on how much air you blow into it!

Unlike the trumpet which requires physical strength, playing the nay requires skillful fingerwork and careful control over your breathing. It’s important to remember that each note should be played with its own distinct intensity rather than blown out full blast or softly murmured away. With practice though, even novice players will soon find themselves producing beautiful melodies with this captivating instrument.

As well as providing great opportunities for personal expression, the nay also makes a wonderful addition to any ensemble setting. As its distinctive sound may not always fit comfortably within traditional Western styles of music, adding it to your repertoire could open up exciting new creative avenues – something all musicians should aspire towards! Not only that but if you ever get invited to perform at smaller events such as weddings or dinners parties then having some knowledge of this enchanting instrument can really help make those occasions extra special too.

In short, mastering the art of playing the nay takes time and effort but when done right can reward you with countless hours of joyous musical exploration. So why not give it a go? You never know what hidden talent might lie inside until you try!

12. “Nentsi”

Another uniquely captivating musical instrument is the Nentsi. This ancient wind instrument originated in Siberia and has been used for centuries by many cultures to convey emotion through its melodic tones. Like the nay, playing this flute-like woodwind requires skillful fingerwork and a delicate touch as each note must be played with precision and finesse.

The sound of a Nentsi is often described as being hauntingly beautiful – one that can evoke strong feelings within listeners. For players, exploring the range of sounds available from this versatile instrument can provide hours of creative enjoyment. It’s also great for accompanying other instruments or even solo performances!

Anyone interested in learning how to play should start by first familiarizing themselves with the basics – such as fingering techniques and breathing control – before progressing onto more complex melodies. As with any instrument, practice makes perfect so it pays to spend time developing your skills if you’re serious about mastering it. Fortunately there are plenty of online resources available to help get you started.

Overall, the Nentsi is an amazing tool for self expression and a wonderful addition to any musician’s repertoire. From traditional folk music to contemporary styles, adding its unique charm could really make your performance stand out among the crowd! So why not give it a try? You never know what hidden talent might lie inside until you do!

13. “Ngoni”

The Ngoni is another ancient musical instrument with a long history. Dating back thousands of years, it has been used for many different types of music and continues to be popular in various parts of the world today. This four-stringed lute is said to have originated from West Africa but over time has spread across other nations like Mali where traditional songs are still played on them regularly.

Unlike the nentsi which requires precise fingerwork, playing the ngoni is more about understanding rhythm and tempo than exact note placement. In fact, one of its greatest strengths lies in its ability to provide a rich beat that can drive any song forward! To get started all you need is some basic knowledge of chords and strumming techniques – both of which can easily be picked up through online tutorials or even by trial and error.

In addition to providing an infectious backing track, the Ngoni also offers plenty of scope for improvising solos and melodies – something that’s sure to give your performance an extra edge! Plus, as it comes in different sizes and shapes there’s sure to be one out there that fits perfectly into your repertoire.

All things considered, learning how to play the Ngoni could open up a whole new world of possibilities when it comes to making music. So why not take this opportunity to explore what else this amazing instrument has to offer? Go ahead – let yourself be surprised at what you find!

14. “Nine-String Guitar”

The nine-string guitar is a unique instrument that offers a wide range of sounds and possibilities. While it can look intimidating with its extra strings, the truth is that this instrument is just as easy to play as any other stringed instrument. With some practice and dedication, you’ll soon be able to create beautiful music on your nine-string guitar!

One thing to keep in mind when playing the nine-string guitar is that each additional string provides a different tonal quality. This means you have more room for experimentation, allowing you to explore new musical avenues and come up with creative ideas. You can also use the added strings to produce chords or arpeggios that are too complex for standard electric guitars – giving your compositions an even richer sound.

Of course, getting used to playing all those strings might take some time. But don’t worry – there are plenty of resources available online where you can get tips and advice from experienced players who’ve been down the same path before. Plus, once you master how to strum or fingerpick using all nine strings, you’ll find yourself able to express yourself musically like never before!

In addition to learning how to play properly, it’s also important not to forget about having fun while doing so. After all, one of the best parts of making music with a nine-string guitar is being able to experiment without limits! So make sure you dedicate enough time for exploring what this amazing instrument has in store for you – it’ll definitely be worth your while!

15. “Njarka”

Another unique stringed instrument is the njarka, which originates from West Africa. This single-stringed bow-like instrument has a hollow gourd as its resonator and produces an incredibly beautiful sound that can be heard for miles. It’s traditionally used in ceremonial or ritual music to accompany singing, clapping and dancing.

Using this instrument takes some practice – it may look fairly simple but mastering it requires skill and coordination. To play the njarka you must hold it with your left hand while strumming the horsehair bow with your right hand. You also have to pluck the strings of the instrument using fingers from both hands simultaneously. The trick here is to get a steady rhythm going so that each sound is equally balanced and melodic.

The best part about playing this particular musical instrument is that you don’t need any special equipment other than the njarka itself – no extra pickups or amplifiers required! Plus, if you’re looking for inspiration, there are plenty of videos online showcasing musicians who’ve mastered the art of creating beautiful melodies on their njarkas. Watching them perform will surely give you ideas on how to bring out even more amazing sounds from yours!

So why not take up this challenge? Even if things don’t go perfectly at first, stick with it – soon enough you’ll be able to produce mesmerizing tunes with your very own njarka!

16. “Nogo”

In addition to the njarka, another fascinating instrument is the nogo. This two-stringed lute hails from West Africa and produces a mesmerizing range of tones that can be used for both traditional folk music as well as modern genres. It’s usually made with hardwood such as mahogany or ebony and its strings are constructed from either gut or metal wire.

What sets this instrument apart from other stringed instruments is that it has an incredibly wide range of sounds – you can play low notes all the way up to high ones! Plus, its strings have different lengths so they produce distinct pitches when plucked. To get the most out of your nogo playing experience, practice strumming and picking techniques like arpeggios and hammer ons/pull offs until you feel comfortable enough to start improvising melodies.

The beauty of learning how to play the nogo lies in its versatility – not only can you use it in solo performances but also accompany singers, dancers and even other musicians. Once mastered, there’ll be no limit to what kind of tunes you’ll be able to create with this incredible instrument!

So if you’re looking for something new and exciting to add to your repertoire, why not give the nogo a go? Just grab one (or borrow one) and let yourself explore its amazing potential – we guarantee you won’t regret it!

17. “Northumbrian Small Pipes”

Continuing on from the nogo, we have the Northumbrian small pipes. These are a special type of bagpipe unique to northeastern England, and they produce an unmistakable melancholic sound that’s truly captivating. Unlike other traditional instruments like fiddles or flutes, the Northumbrian small pipes feature two drones – one for each chanter – which add a distinctive texture to the music.

The instrument is made up of several components: there’s a blow-stick with bellows attached, as well as at least three reeds and four sets of keys. The player must be careful when setting up the instrument because these parts need to be adjusted just right in order for it to work properly. Once you get them in place though, all that’s left is mastering its technique!

When playing the Northumbrian small pipes, some key techniques include tonguing (which helps create different tones), half-holing (for those tricky high notes) and grace note embellishments (to fill in gaps between phrases). With enough practice and patience you can master these techniques and use them to your advantage while performing tunes both old and new.

The beauty of this instrument lies not only in its haunting sound but also in its rich history; centuries ago it was used by shepherds across northeast England as a way of communicating with their flock over long distances. Today it continues to live on through performances by dedicated pipers who keep this tradition alive for generations to come.

18. “Nose Flute”

The nose flute is another fascinating musical instrument that has been used across cultures for hundreds of year. It’s a simple, end-blown wind instrument with finger holes along the length of the tube – and it’s played by blowing into one nostril while covering or uncovering the other! This surprisingly versatile instrument can produce sweet, gentle tones as well as more powerful sounds depending on how much air you put into it.

Using a nose flute requires practice and patience; mastering your breath control is important to producing clear notes. Similarly, learning to cover and uncover different finger holes will help you create complex melodies. You may even find yourself experimenting with trills and vibrato techniques once you become comfortable playing this unique instrument.

In addition to its distinct sound, what makes the nose flute so special is its cultural significance: Many Indigenous tribes around the world use this instrument in their music making ceremonies and storytelling rituals. Being able to share songs through an ancient form like this brings people together in ways that modern instruments simply cannot replicate.

Whether you’re looking for something new to learn or just curious about traditional instruments, adding nose flutes to your repertoire is certainly worth considering! Not only do they provide an interesting challenge but they also offer a great way to connect with history in meaningful ways.

19. “Nyckelharpa”

One of the most interesting instruments to come out of Scandinavian culture is the nyckelharpa. This peculiar stringed instrument has a key-shaped bow and consists of an intricate row of strings, some bowed and others plucked. Its sound is truly remarkable – it’s both airy and sharp with a unique resonance that can cut through any mix.

If you’re looking for something different or want to add unusual textures to your music, then playing the nyckelharpa could be just what you need! It may take some time to get used to the way this instrument works but once you do, its captivating tones will open up a whole new world of musical possibilities. You can learn traditional Nordic tunes as well as create completely original pieces; whatever direction you choose, there’s no denying that this instrument offers plenty of potential.

Learning how to play the nyckelharpa also provides insight into ancient Scandinavian culture and customs – from folk songs passed down from generation to generation all the way back to Viking warriors using it in battle. As such, it serves as more than just an instrument: It’s a window into a rich cultural heritage steeped in tradition. And by exploring these stories behind each song, we can better understand our past while connecting with people on a deeper level today.

The nyckelharpa is without doubt one of those rare instruments that combine intriguing sounds with fascinating history – making it perfect for anyone who wants to explore music in creative yet meaningful ways.

20. “Nylon Guitar”

Nylon guitar is one of the most popular musical instruments today. It’s a versatile instrument, with its gentle and sweet sound making it ideal for many genres of music. Whether you’re playing folk, jazz or classical pieces, nylon guitars can help bring your music to life.

It has also become increasingly popular as an alternative to electric guitars in rock and metal bands. Its softer tones are perfect for creating captivating melodies that drive the rhythm section forward. Nylon strings also have less tension, so they’re easier on beginner’s fingers than steel-stringed acoustic guitars.

Although it doesn’t create quite the same volume as other types of acoustic guitar, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing; it simply means that players must learn how to project their sound more effectively using techniques such as fingerstyle picking or strumming patterns. With practice and dedication, anyone can master these skills — regardless of whether they’re looking to conquer solos or just accompany themselves while singing along.

No matter what kind of musician you are, there’s no denying that nylon guitar has plenty to offer – from its warm sounds to its ease of use! Whether you want to record professional tracks or just jam out in your bedroom at home, this instrument will serve you well throughout your journey into music.