There’s more to a gong than meets the ear. In fact, there are many different types of gongs with their own specific purposes. Here, we explore the different types of gongs and what they’re used for.
The term “gong” actually refers to a variety of percussion instruments from all over the world. Gongs can be made from metal, stone, wood, or shell, and come in a variety of sizes. The largest gong is said to be the tam-tam, which can weigh up to 500 pounds!
History of Gongs
Gongs have been used for centuries for a variety of purposes, including ceremonial and religious rites, as well as music making.
Types of Gongs
Today, gongs are still used in a variety of ways. Here are some of the most popular types of gongs and their uses:
Tam-tams: The most significant type of gong, tam-tams are typically made from metal and can weigh up to 500 pounds. They’re usually played with a mallet and produce a shallow, deep sound. Tam-tams are often used in orchestras and as sound effects in movies.
Bowl gongs: Also called singing bowls or Tibetan bowls, these gongs are made from metal, stone, or wood. They vary in size but are typically smaller than tam-tams. Bowl gongs are played with a mallet and produce a high-pitched sound. They’re often used in sound therapy or as relaxation aids.
Tuned gongs: As the name suggests, tuned gongs are tuned to specific pitches. They’re typically made from metal and vary in size. Tuned gongs are played with a mallet and produce a sustained sound. They’re often used in orchestras, as well as in sound therapy.
Friction gongs: Friction gongs are rubbed with a stick or other object to create sound. They’re typically made from stone or wood and vary in size. Friction gongs are used in various settings, including religious ceremonies and as sound effects in movies.
Pitched percussion gongs: Pitched percussion gongs are similar to tuned gongs, but they’re not tuned to specific pitches. They’re typically made from metal and vary in size. Pitched percussion gongs are played with a mallet and produce a sound that can be sustained or decaying. They’re often used in orchestras and as sound effects in movies.
Unpitched percussion gongs: Unpitched percussion gongs are similar to friction gongs, but they’re not rubbed with a stick or other object to create sound. Instead, they’re hit with a mallet or other object. They’re typically made from metal and vary in size. Unpitched percussion gongs are used in various settings, including religious ceremonies and as sound effects in movies.
Summary
As you can see, there are many different types of gongs, each with its own specific purpose. Whether you’re looking to add some sound effects to your next movie or you want to try sound therapy or Gong bath, there’s a gong out there that’s perfect for you. So don’t be afraid to experiment and find the right one for you. Overall, if you are checking out Gong bath London and Sound Bath London, you’ll surely experience a few of them.
