While you won't necessarily come across a kazoo in a concert hall, simply because this little pocket-sized instrument is so easy to play, it's as popular as ever. Basically, if you can carry a tune, you can play the kazoo, so if you like the soothing sound of a bee trapped in a matchbox, you're in the right place.
Playing the Kazoo
The kazoo is played by placing the wider end to your mouth and... essentially humming into it. The result is a tuneful buzzing sound which starts sounding really good as soon as you start hitting higher notes. Since you're humming the tune into the kazoo, the instrument will sound as in tune as your singing.
How Does the Kazoo Work?
The kazoo is a long pipe-like instrument with a diaphragm that's mounted about halfway along the body. It's this diaphragm that makes all the magic happen since, when air passes through the kazoo, the diaphragm vibrates, and it's the frequency of the vibration - so the note that you hum - that determines the pitch of your kazoo. Over time, the diaphragm can get worn out so kazoos can stop sounding as fresh. As such, you can get kazoos with replaceable diaphragms and simply swap it for a new one. If you can't find any new diaphragms, you could also just replace it with a little circle of baking paper since it's almost the same thing.
The Kazoo: The Classic Party-Starter
Because it's so cheap and easy to play, the kazoo is a favourite among children and will often find its way into a party bag or into music lessons at primary schools alongside other beginner-friendly instruments like the
melodica
and
percussion
instruments like drums, tambourines and triangles.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Kazoo
How do you play the kazoo?
Simply place the larger end of the kazoo in your mouth and, instead of blowing, all you need to do is hum - or 'sing' 'doo do do' in the tune your audience wants to hear and you're playing the kazoo. Generally, the higher the pitch of your singing, the better your kazoo will sound.
Where can I get a kazoo?
Pretty much any music shop on the planet will sell kazoos. At Bax Music, we have a full range of kazoos in various colours and made of different materials.
Where does the kazoo come from?
The origins of the kazoo are unknown, but the story goes that the first kazoo was invented by Alabama Vest in Georgia as far back as 1840.
What makes a good kazoo?
The cheapest kazoos are made of plastic while more expensive kazoos are made of metal. People who have some experience with playing the kazoo tend to prefer the sound of metal models, but they can feel a little weird against your teeth. As such, children tend to go nuts for plastic kazoos - especially if they come in a fun colour.
How does a kazoo make sound?
The kazoo is a pipe-like instrument with an opening halfway along the body where a small diaphragm is fitted. As you 'hum' into the instrument, the diaphragm vibrates to create that characteristic, tuneful buzzing sound.
