What is a Jaw Harp?
A jaw harp is a very simple, but unique instrument with an ancient past. In this post, we take a look at a few of the best jaw harps available online. But is what a jaw harp you say? The jaw harp is a hand-held instrument that contains a flexible reed in a solid frame and it meant to be played in the musician’s mouth. Some of the best jaw harps are made of either metal or bamboo and are played all around the world.
In fact, the history of the jaw harp has been traced to an ancient Chinese drawing from as early as the 3rd century BC. There are many different names given to the instrument. In addition to jaw harp, these include Jew’s harp, mouth harp, juice harp, gewgaw, vargan, khomus, Ozark harp and many others.
Interestingly, the name Jew’s harp has no relation at all to Judaica or Jewish culture.
How Do You Play the Jaw Harp?
The jaw harp only requires the mouth to play. It is held against the musician’s teeth or lips, and when he/she flicks the flexible reed a sound is produced. This produces the characteristic “boing” sound the jaw harp is known for.
While playing the jaw harp, the mouth plays an important role. By essentially serving as a kind of resonator box (like the body of a guitar), the mouth controls the pitch that is produced.
Why Buy a Jaw Harp?
There are several reasons why we love the jaw harp. First, it is small enough to put in your pocket. And that’s not an easy feat for many types of instruments on the market. Because it’s made of solid material (typically wood or metal), there is little danger of damaging it.
Second, it has no moving parts and doesn’t require any tuning.
And third, it’s fun, unique and inexpensive! It also provides quite a conservation piece. In addition, the “boing” that the jaw harp provides interest and depth when performing blues and folk music.
While the jaw harp is probably not an everyday sound in western music, it can be heard quite distinctly in various songs. Check out Canned Heat’s multi-part song “Parthenogenesis” from their Living the Blues album.
Let’s take a look at some of the best jaw harps we’ve found for under $50.
Oberton Professional Jaw Harp w/ Cedar Case
The Oberton Professional Jaw Harp is a step above the beginner options shown below, and brings professional sound quality with exceptional craftmanship. As a mid-level option, this harp provides great dynamics, with clean and controllable timbre
Several things that makes this instrument stand out. First, it is extremely lightweight, compared to the beginner options. This makes it more comfortable to hold in the mouth for extended periods of time. Like the others reviewed, this model is 4 inches in length.
The second thing is the actual harp itself – unlike the beginner harps, this offering is carved from metal and has a truly beautiful pattern to it. Past purchasers provide glowing reviews.
And finally, the protective case is beautifully carved from cedar with cord tie-downs in the back.
Comments from Buyers
- “I bought this jaw harp as a gift for my son’s birthday. A lovely item and wonderful musical instrument.”
- “Fun and beautifully made – very nice storage case.“
- “Beautiful, pictures don’t do it justice. Bought it as a gift – a hit for any music lover.”
Altay Jaw Harp for Beginners w/ Dark Leaf Wood Case
This is a great beginner jaw harp with a beautiful carved case. Produced in Altay (republic in Russia), by master Pavel Potkin, this harp is easy to use and creates that distinctive “boingy” sound when played. Small and lightweight, it measures almost 4 inches in length and weights about 1.5 ounces. Leather straps tie-down the harp in the back of the case.
While there are many interesting jaw harps on the market, but this is a great, inexpensive starter option. Makes a great gift too!
Comments from Buyers
- “An excellent beginner jaw harp. Highly recommend this item.”
- “My daughter and I were introduced to a Jews harp by my sister and we were hooked…“
- “We purchased this for our 16 year old son who loves country Western music. He loves it! Said the storage box is freaking awesome”
Altay Jaw Harp for Beginners w/ Wood Shaman Case
Another excellent beginner option from renowned master Pavel Potkin, this jaw harp comes with a very cool, handmade wooden Shaman protective case. Leather straps tie-down the harp in the back of the case.
Like the option above, this harp is well-crafted, small and lightweight enough to toss in your pocket. It measures 4 inches in length and weighs about 2.3 ounzes. Also easy to use and creates that distinctive “boingy” sound when played.
Comments from Buyers
- “Nicely crafted harp with tight reed to posts. Recommend.”
- “Plays well and couldn’t be happier. Planning on ordering another for my daughter!”
Final Thoughts
Whether you call this instrument a jaw harp, a Jew’s harp, a mouth harp or vargan one thing’s for sure – it’s pretty fun to play and makes a fun gift for your musically-inclined friends.
While there are lots of cheap options on the market, these three are some of the best jaw harps under $50. They are all of exceptional quality and relatively inexpensive. Pick one up today and get your boing on!
Interested in learning more about unique kinds of harps? Check out our posts on autoharps and lyre harps.
