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How does a kazoo work? |
by Kate Simmons >> more about the author
From its funny name to its wacky sound, there’s just something about a kazoo that makes us smile! While it can be challenging to play well, understanding how the kazoo works may be just what it takes to master this fun instrument!
A kazoo is a type of mirliton, which is the name given to a musical instrument that uses vibration—often with the help of a human voice—to move a resonator. When you hum into a kazoo, the resonator (the small piece of wax paper or plastic inside) vibrates.
The kazoo’s shape helps to make the vibration louder. The result: the buzzing sound that we all recognize as kazoo music!
Now it’s your turn to try to play the kazoo! While
most people want to blow into the instrument to make sound, the trick
seems to be humming or singing! Humming with your lips sealed isn’t the
answer, but humming with your throat, or singing (for example, singing
the word “who”) will help you to get a better sound out of your kazoo.
Enjoy making music!
