Kan: Traditional Thai Reed Mouth Organ
The kan is a traditional Thai instrument from the northeastern region of Isan, which can be played solo or as an accompanying instrument. During the reign of King Rama IV, playing the kan was prohibited in Bangkok due to concerns that it might surpass in popularity the traditional Thai ensemble music of the central region. The kan consists of bamboo pipes, a metal reed, and a windchest (tao) made from the root of a hardwood tree. Today, efforts are being made to modernize the kan such as tuning it to the international standard pitch and forming ensembles alongside Western instruments.
Thailand
2020
