Gayageum: New Instruments

The Gayageum or Kayagum is a Korean stringed instrument with a distinctly Asian sound. The Gayageum is typically associated with Sanjo music which is a Korean style of music. Sanjo music starts off with a slow rhythm, but by the end, the rhythm becomes quite fast. This effect is intended to create excitement from the audience.

The instrument is made of a harder wood like walnutand has anywhere from 13-25 steel strings. The North Korean version has 21 strings. The Gayageum has been dated as far back as the 1st century.