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Idiophone facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Triangle instrument
A triangle is an example of an idiophone

An idiophone is a type of musical instrument. It makes sound from the material of the instrument itself. Think of it like the instrument's body being the sound maker! These instruments do not use reeds, strings, or special sound boxes called resonators. Many percussion instruments that are not drums are idiophones.

How Idiophones Make Sound

Idiophones create their sounds in different ways. They can be played by hitting them. You might also make sound by rubbing them. Sometimes, you make sound by shaking them. Drums are not idiophones. Instruments with strings are also not idiophones.

Examples of Idiophones

There are many cool examples of idiophones. A triangle is an idiophone. A wood block is another one. Maracas are also idiophones. Bells and gongs are great examples too. Each one makes a unique sound.

Images for kids

  • 5 Leaf Kouxian

    A kouxian, a plucked idiophone

  • Bell Plates (from LA Percussion Rentals)

    Set of bell plates, range C2–E4, a struck idiophone (played with mallets) or friction idiophone (bowed)

  • Latin jazz clave percussion sticks

    Claves (foreground), a struck idiophone

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Idiófono para niños

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Idiophone Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.