Some of the most popular musical instruments that start with the letter Y are yatga, yuka, yunluo, and yueqin. While some are less common, all instruments are used in different music genres.This list contains a variety of instruments that starts with the letter Y:
- YANGQIN – A hammered dulcimer from China.
- YANGGUM – A Korean hammered dulcimer.
- YAOGU – A large traditional Chinese drum.
- YARAKI – A name for the didgeridoo, a hollow wooden tube sounded by buzzing the lips into one end.
- YATGA – A Mongolian plucked zither with movable bridges. The number of strings varies by instrument.
- YAYLI TANBUR – A Turkish bowed lute.
- YEHU – A Chinese bowed string instrument that has a coconut shell as a sound box.
- YIDAKI – The Yolŋu name for a didgeridoo of northeast Arnhem Land, Australia. The instrument has a role in Yolŋu ceremony, dance and storytelling.
- YOTSUTAKE – A Japanese bamboo instrument that is used in traditional dances.
- YU – A Chinese free reed instrument, similar to a “sheng.”
- YUEQIN – A round, plucked Chinese lute whose body gives it the nickname “moon lute” or “moon guitar.” It is used in Beijing opera and to accompany singing.
- YUKA – Cuban drums that are long, vertical, and cylindrical in shape.
- YUN LO – Also written yunluo, this Chinese “cloud gong” traditionally has ten tuned bronze gongs held in a frame. Larger orchestral versions can have two dozen or more.
Conclusion
Musical instruments that start with the letter Y are only a few, but each country has its own music culture that is passed down from generation to generation. This is what makes each country’s music unique and interesting.
Whether you’re looking for Y-named musical instruments to add to your collection or just want to learn more about the music of different cultures, this list is a great starting point.
