The Mudcat Café TM
Thread #58620 Message #928986
Posted By: Blackcatter
08-Apr-03 - 06:02 PM
Thread Name: how to play a jaws harp
Subject: RE: Tech: how to play a jaws harp
Correct, Q.
The "jews" appears to have no connection to the religion. It likely derrived from some other word, but no one has been able to figure it out. "jaw" occured much later (20th Century) and likely stems from the embarassment some people felt about the name jews harp. Your jaws have little to do with playing a jews harp. If anything a "teeth harp" would be more appropriate.
One could also use any of the non-American terms as well including:
England - Gewgaw
Germany - Maultrommel (which means mouth drum)
Japan - Koukin
Russia - Vargan
Siberia - Khomus
Philippines - Kumbing and kubing
Italy - Scacciapensieri
Norway - munnharpa or munnharpe
France - guimbarde
Bali - genggong