Tungehorn

Tungehorn refers to a traditional Scandinavian musical instrument, specifically a type of Jew's harp (also known as a jaw harp or mouth harp). While the term "Jew's harp" is common, some Scandinavian cultures use alternative names to avoid potentially offensive connotations associated with the word "Jew's". "Tungehorn" (directly translated as "tongue horn" in some Scandinavian languages) is one such alternative, emphasizing the role of the tongue in playing the instrument and perhaps its acoustic properties resembling a primitive horn.

The instrument typically consists of a flexible metal or bamboo tongue (the lamella) attached to a frame. The player holds the frame against their teeth or mouth and plucks the tongue, using the mouth as a resonator to amplify and modulate the sound. Different mouth shapes and tongue positions produce different overtones, allowing the player to create simple melodies and rhythmic patterns.

Tungehorn, like other Jew's harps, is a relatively simple instrument in construction but can be quite complex to master. The sounds produced are often described as twangy, resonant, and somewhat percussive. Historically, it was a popular instrument for personal entertainment and was often associated with folk music traditions. Though less common today, it continues to be played by enthusiasts and is sometimes featured in contemporary Scandinavian folk music. Regional variations in design and playing style likely exist, though detailed documentation may be limited compared to other traditional instruments.