The wood blockis related to one of the oldest instruments on earth. That would be the drum. No wonder the wood block still endures! Check out our guide for some of the best blocks around.
Wood Blocks Around the World
* In East Asia, the wood block is given an upgrade, in the form of large temple blocks, that you'd be hard-pressed (literally) to move. You don't play them with wimpy little sticks: you have to swing a wooden log against them.
* In Africa and the Pacific Islands, you get log drums (hollowed-out logs) and slit drums (crafted from bamboo).
* In China, the ''muyu ''is a wood block of choice. It might be played with a wimpy stick, but it's shaped like a fish! The ''bangzi'', smaller and higher-pitched, is also a popular wood block instrument.
* Vietnam is home to the slit drum instrument, ''song lang''.
* In the West, the wood block is typically rectangular, but not without its exotic properties; some can be made out of teak. Oooohhh...
How To Play
Pay close attention to this; the procedure is extremely complicated. Perform the required movements incorrectly and you could risk being ridiculed, or worse, creating an awful sound. Or people will think you're untalented. Just remember: each action must be executed with careful precision and perfection.
* Grip the block with your hand. Don't grip it too tightly. Use any hand if you are ambidextrous, or daring enough to imagine that you are. Most prefer gripping the block in the right hand. Use caution when using the left hand. It may seem strange and unconventional, but will only suit a wood block playing maverick well.
* The hand that is not occupied with wood block should hold a stick or mallet.
* It is crucial to hit the block in the right spot. Many might argue that when it comes to striking the wood block, anything goes. But let's not get carried away; try to hit the block at the top. Then, when you are comfortable enough (and feeling adventurous) you can hit it wherever you please.
* When it comes to faster music, you will need both hands for this. Don't be afraid to put the wood block down and use two mallets or sticks instead of one. In no time, you will appear to be an expert and people will be pretty impressed.