Artyomov’s workshop in Biysk makes Altay komuses and wooden cases for jaw harps.

The komuses vary considerably in size, pitch and sound character. The large “Chaganburgazy” sounds around B1, with a soft reed and a low, rough voice. The compact “Chulcha” and “Chulcha 2” sound higher—around F#2—and are simple souvenir instruments with a quiet, muted timbre. Many of the workshop’s models have wide gaps and noticeable mechanical noise.

A substantial part of the workshop’s output consists of lightweight cedar cases for jaw harps of various shapes and sizes. The instrument is held in place by a cord with a sliding bead, allowing the case to be opened without untying the knot.

Leave gratitude or wish something on forum (1)