How to Build a Vietnamese Dan K’ni, A Wooden Bowed Single String Instrument That Connects to the Mouth

Musician Nicolas Bras of Musiques de Nulle Part (previously) showed how to make a Vietnamese dan k’ni, single string wooden instrument that connects to the mouth with a piece of twine and a plastic disc. This talking instrument is played with a violin bow.

Bras had previously made two others, but he wanted to make a third so that he could master the instrument without the use of frets.

I want another DIY dan k’ni, the mouth violin from Vietnam, so I make it and share it with you!

Lori Dorn
Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.