Feature

Nazia Ahmed

EVERY time I hear the carpenters saw-ing away in their workshop, I cant help but notice the rhythm that comes out from their works, with a bit of hammers bamming and metals being imbedded, as background noise. Altogether it makes quite a concert of its own unique style. The Musical saw is the kind of instrument that answers the question “How come these unique rhythms are not being used to make music in our day to day lives?”

Though some consider the Musical Saw an American folk musical instrument believed to have gotten its start somewhere in the Appalachian Mountains in the 19th century, the origins of the musical saw are actually not confined to one country. Carpenters and lumberjacks all over the world discovered that their tool could make sounds, thus, no country can really claim ownership over the invention of making music with a saw. Saw playing probably started at the end of the 17th century, when saws were mass-produced with pliable steel blades.

The pioneers who couldn't afford bringing musical instruments with them to America brought tools for building houses, etc. Thus saw playing became popular in the USA at a time when there weren't other instruments easily available. During the 19th century (and probably before) many priests played the saw during church services. Later, the saw became a staple of Vaudeville shows.

The saw is generally played seated with the handle squeezed between the legs, and the far end held with one hand. It is generally played with the teeth facing the body. In the early 20th century the Musical Saw began to get very popular in America and Europe as well. It is also known as the Singing Saw. As hard as one might find to believe it produces a very pure ethereal tone, and can sound similar to a woman's high singing voice.

The Musical Saw is still played today by a number of people, with festivals and gatherings held around the world. One of a number of notable saw players are Natalia Paruz, affectionately known as the "Saw Lady". Taking the Musical Saw to new heights and to a professional musical.

(Source: Internet)