Description:
The koni is a unique two stringed bowed instrument, in which is only found in Vietnam. The koni may have originated from the abrel [a single stringed stick fiddle belonging to several Vietnamese ethnic groups like the Jarai, Bahnar, Ede, Xe Dang, Pako and the Hre ethnic groups]. The current form koni was revived by the Hanoi Conservatory of Music and it is used by a small number of musicians.
Playing Techniques:
The koni is held vertically in between the left and right knees for support. Amongst bowed instruments the koni is unique, this is because the acoustic chamber is completed by a small brass or plastic disc the musician inserts just underneath his pallet. A single length of thread is then threaded through the disc this behaves as the sound conductor. The tone of the koni changes when the mouth opens and closes slightly.
Anatomy of the Koni:
Two steel strings are strung for the koni, they can be the bottom A and E strings for a guitar or banjo strings maybe used. To attach the metal disc a thread is passed through two small holes punctured through the disc and connected to the same screw near the bottom of the koni. The shape of the body for the koni is inspired from the lilly flower.