A World of Instruments

Four MusikMesse trade shows in a row and Dan Moi World Instruments still holds the title, in my book, as one of the absolute coolest booths in the entire show.

   In an area that seems to span the length of five major US airports with every kind of musical instrument and gadget on display, it is no surprise that every year the Dan Moi booth - down and over a row from my friends at Shubb Capos -  is packed with participants, on-lookers, gawkers and photo opportunists.

   Sven and Otto man the booth with almost a carnival like atmosphere that brings non-stop face-breaking smiles, awe and bemused bewilderment to the booths attendees who flock to the space in droves with threats to never leave until they’ve experienced every device on the shelves.  How the Dan Moi folks come up with something new each year is what is most astounding to me. 

Practical jokes and patient instruction on how to operate each device with various blowing, snorting, quacking and breathing techniques seems to be more than half of the fun, and as demonstrated by the Dan Moi crew, this is what they’re all about.

   Besides being a challenge and a blast to play, particularly for a guy accustomed to making music from strings, these harps, whistles, and wind instruments are as musical as you’d ever hope for when dealing with tiny and unique looking objects made out of wood, plastic or metal.  Each new bird tweet or coconut kokiriko certainly brought a smile to my face, and I especially liked the Devil chaser. 

   And I must admit that I was the official practical joker as I invaded their booth and undeniably brought on more than a chuckle or two by the savvy attendees, Sven and Otto, as I attempted to convince some folks that many of the devices were eye or smile activated. 

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/richardgilewitz: Track 12, Mischief at 30,000 Feet on Tasmania Live features a Dan Moi Jews Harp