Is the Kazoo a Real Musical Instrument?

One commonly held belief is that the kazoo is not a real musical instrument because of its limited ability to produce a range of notes or due to its small size. However, this notion is simply not accurate. Just like any other instrument, a kazoo can be played to produce music, and its unique sound can add a unique and humorous flair to performances.

Understanding the Limitations of Musical Instruments

There are various levels of musical limitations for every instrument, regardless of its size or complexity. The violations of these limitations can make certain pieces of music harder to play. For instance, the ukulele, despite being a compact instrument, does have its limitations. Certain complex musical pieces like Stravinsky’s “Rite of Spring” are challenging to play with perfect accuracy due to the instrument’s size and the range of notes it can produce.

Similar limitations exist for more traditional instruments as well. The grand piano, for instance, is capable of producing an astonishingly wide range of sounds and emotions. However, it lacks the ability to produce a vibrato or bend notes, which are common techniques in other instruments. The violin can produce a highly nuanced sound, yet it cannot play certain types of music like ragas as authentically as a traditional Indian instrument might. All instruments, including the kazoo, have their limitations.

Notable Musicians and Sheet Music Usage of the Ukulele and Kazoo

Despite their limitations, the ukulele and kazoo are respected instruments in the world of music. Famous musicians play the ukulele, and audiences pay to see them perform. For example, Jake Shimakubo has gained a significant following due to his exceptional ukulele-playing skills. He has inspired many musicians and fans to appreciate the instrument beyond its typical use as a novelty instrument.

Sheet music is available for the ukulele and kazoo, and they are used to play some pretty serious pieces. While not every piece of music is within the reach of these instruments, they can still produce beautiful and meaningful sounds. For instance, it wouldn't be out of place to imagine a P.D.Q. Bach composition featuring a kazoo.

Proper and Reputational Instrumentation

Some purists may argue that the ukulele or kazoo are not "proper" instruments. However, their opinion should not weigh heavily in determining the authenticity of an instrument. What matters more is whether the instrument can produce music. Both the ukulele and kazoo serve the same purpose: to create beauty and enjoyment through music.

There are no purists who would argue that the ukulele is a real musical instrument, and the same can be said about the kazoo. The kazoo is perfect for playing music that doesn't require complex melodies or detailed lyrics. For instance, it is often used to suppress lyrics, adding a humorous and unexpected twist to performances. The kazoo, like the ukulele, can also be the perfect instrument to suppress mediocre or nonsensical lyrics in performances.

Conclusion

While the kazoo and ukulele may have limitations that prevent them from playing certain types of music, they are still real instruments. They are used to create music and bring joy to audiences. Their unique sounds and playful nature make them valuable members of any musical ensemble, whether for serious classical performances or lighthearted and humorous acts.