The Bamhum is a new wind musical instrument made out of bamboo invented by Moa Subong of Abiogenesis from Dimapur in India . The Bamhum draws it’s name from the basic roots, the Bamboo and the effect of Humming into this instrument. A medium sized bamboo instrument that one hums into to produce tones that are sourced from the user’s vocal chords and resonates with a captivating effect on the listener. Rattles are assembled on the opposite end of the knot that works as a resonance chamber which converts the tune of the hum into the unique sound of the bamhum. The simplicity with which the player can play the bamhum is an added advantage since all it takes for a player is to simply hum a tune into the hum hole, besides controlled breathing as an ingredient to acquire proficiency and versatility over the bamhum, unlike other instruments where one undertakes the long trail of learning the technicalities of playing musical instruments. No theoretical lessons are necessary to play the bamhum and one can easily progress from a learner to an exponent through practice. It can be played as a solo instrument, back-up or supportive role in a band/orchestra or played in an ensemble with many bamhum players playing various parts of a song. It can be played in any kind of music- classical, folk, rock, jazz, blues, gospel, pop etc.The bamhum is arguably the only musical instrument invented in the past 100 years, other claimed ones being improvisation or re-invention of existing ones.
The Bamhum was unveiled by His Excellency Shri M.M. Jacob, Governor of Meghalaya on 3nd May 2005 at the Central Library Hall, Shillong, Meghalaya, India during the International Bamfest. The unveiling ceremony was entirely organized and sponsored by Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency, Government of Nagaland.
The Bamhum is the brainchild of Moa Subong, who also happens to be a renowned musician and songwriter in India. Moa and his wife Arenla are founding members of the nationally acclaimed fusion band Abiogenesis. Though the bamhum was unveiled in 2005, it drew attention after Abiogenesis released their album Aeon Spell in June 2007 by Saregama which went on to be listed for the 50th Grammy Awards in 2 categories. Bamhum is a leading instrument of Abiogenesis and it blends beautifully well with Howey music. Howey is a new world music genre developed by Abiogenesis , it’s a blend of Naga (India) folk tunes with various forms of modern music. Abiogenesis has also released their second howey album Rustic Relish through APH Records. One can listen to their mp3 clippings or buy online at www.cdbaby.com/
What the bamhum has got is really unique and a natural result of one man’s dream and effort. The effect of this new wind musical instrument is multifaceted and versatile because it is not restricted only to the musicians but just about anyone can pick it up and play it . One can log into www.bamhum.altpro.net to see further details of the bamhum.
