KoTaMo Concert Monochord: Koto, Tanpura, Monochord in One!
The KoTaMo Concert Monochord is a three in one instrument that combines a monochord with a koto and a tanpura. The monochord is on one side and the tanpura and koto share the other. It is played horizontally more typically, but can also be set up vertically, which is a really wonderful space saver in a multi-instrument set up allowing one to be able to play both sides of the instrument simultaneously.
Strings and Tuning:
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The monochrome Monochord with 28 overtone strings(C) and 2 bass strings(C)
- The earthy tambura with 4 strings in C,c, c, G, which produces gentle and long-lasting, Indian-like whirring tones)
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The melodious Koto with 12 Kotos strings, which are individually underlaid with single bridges
Dimensions: 53 x 12 x 4 inches (approx)
Materials: Cherry wood and ash, handmade in germany
Includes: Tuner, tuning instrument, some replacement strings, and wood stand.
Strum on the strings close to the bridge of the monochord to create sounds rich in over-tones. Strum in the middle and the sound is more even. At first, it seems like you’re hearing only one tone, but as your mind relaxes you can notice a full variety of tones and overtones that weave a wistful and subtle melody. It creates a sound experience much like that of a gong.
The koto with the single bridges dominates with its harp-like sound, which is occasionally complemented by draw notes. The Monochord accompanies with its fine waves, the tambura completes the sound with its exotic unmistakably Indian whirring tones. The MO-46GK is played lying down. For storage it can be placed upright. In this position the instrument is also very space-saving and a beauty in the living room.
The single bridges can be plucked individually, or played over like a harp. Like a Koto, the single bridges can also be pressed down on the non-tuned side after plucking, so that the tone increases its frequency or produces a vibrato. The tuning template provides a diatonic scale over 1.5 octaves, but the single bridges can also be moved at will, even during play, and a variety of other tunings can be tuned. The single bridges are arranged in the same way as traditional kotos are played, to allow the technique of pulling notes.