Komus "Mountain Altai"

Altai komuses are among the most common jaw harps in Russia because of their low price and basic but usable quality. Wide gaps between the reed and frame allow a rough grip, but can encourage inefficient technique: much of the effort is wasted, and more precise instruments may then seem difficult to hold. These komuses are fairly loud for their construction, yet require considerable effort and offer few clearly distinguishable overtones. More refined instruments make sound control easier and learning more rewarding. The reed geometry is the weak point: its slender elbow adds unwanted vibrations, especially during forceful playing. It tends to encourage a force-driven stroke in which the finger follows its own path regardless of the reed movement. The result is loud and confident, but leaves little room for subtle overtone work.

Beginners often recommend Altai komuses to one another as learning instruments. Yet learning on one can be like learning piano with only three stiff, poorly tuned keys: the player may never discover the missing possibilities. For the price, however, the PP27 is a particularly loud, simple frame jaw harp. Like anything that produces a sound, it can also provide endless scope for developing rhythm.