Folk Instruments

The history of music in America is rich and diverse. Colonial settlers brought ballads and instruments with them from England.

Later, ships from Africa brought a strangely different mix of rhythm and instruments. Many other songs and instruments migrated to America with the Canadian, Dutch, German, and Irish settlers.

"The Colonial marching drum symbolizes the American Revolution as few instruments do. The drum roll was used to call the troops to order, to signal field commands, and to mark cadences. Drums were then made entirely from wood and animal skins. The drums produced a deep, heavy sound and were generally played at a cadence of more than twenty steps per minute, slower than today." -- Adah Strobel, Like It Was

We have assembled a variety of inexpensive folk instruments that truly represent this rich heritage of American music. Our quality instruments are easy to learn, safe and, most important, fun to play.

This Page

All-American Kazoo
Bamboo Flute
Flutophone
Jaw Harp

Page Two

Little Black Penny Whistle
Ocarina
Plastic Fife
Plastic Recorder
Solid Brass Fife

Kazoos are an instrument that anyone can play! Very popular folk instrument. Made today of metal as they were in the 1800's. Complete instructions and history included.

Real bamboo flute, played like a recorder. Features a nice mellow tone. Packaged with history and fingering chart.

From the 20th century, we present an instrument that many adults played in school as kids. Similar to a recorder, but easier to play. Made of sturdy plastic and packaged in its original box. Fingering chart included. Key of C.

This centuries-old folk instrument is more popular today than ever before. Played by holding it to the mouth and striking the vibrating "tongue." Creates all types of unusual sounds. Complete instructions and history included.

We Bees suggest you print out the Order Form now so that you can write down the items you wish to order. We accept bank checks, money orders (American Express & Western Union only), cashier checks, and credit cards (MasterCard & Visa). See Ordering Info for details and other important information.

Please do not hesitate to write us if you have a question or need assistance placing an order. You can also send a fax to 1-812-332-0998 or call us any time of the day at 1-812-339-4500 and leave a message. Our business hours are Monday through Friday, 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. Eastern Standard Time (Central Standard Time when Daylight Savings Time is in effect).

Teachers & youth leaders: We offer an educational discount when you order 12 or more of the same item for teaching purposes.