tRoPpMaNn-On A wIrE

“In most musical instruments the resonator is made of wood while the actual sound generator is of animal origin. In cultures where music is still used as a magical force, the making of an instrument always involves the sacrifice of a living being. That being’s soul then becomes part of the instrument and in the tones that come forth, the ‘singing dead,’ who are ever present with us, make themselves heard.” (From Harmonies of Heaven and Earth by Joscelyn Godwin, 1987, Thames & Hudson.)