By Ben Conant - Feb 21, 2012 | 0 comments

This friendly fellow is “Whistling Spirit” by Shana Brautigam. Blow into its mouth and play the pipes like a pan flute.

“Vase Percussion” by Bryan Moskov. It functions like a drum; hit the top or side holes with your palm to create different sounds.

“Christmas Music” by Art Anderson. “I love music,” Anderson said, “and decided to combine a happy winter elf with some hot jazz for the “Music From Our Hands” exhibition.”

This electric jazz guitar was created by Richard Robichaud. Sweet sunburst!

Luthier Alan Carruth crafted this 5-string viola, a folk-style fiddle that can fit both viola and violin strings.

“Dancing Belt” by Diane Louise Paul is created from bridle leather, a turn-of-the-century harness buckle and some antique sleigh bells that date back to the 1880s.

Alan Carruth also crafted this 12-fret “fingerstyle” guitar, made from North American woods. “Since music can only exist in the act of creation,” Carruth said, “and is not directly representational, it has a claim to being the most abstract of all arts.”

“Twin Joeys with Mom,” a whistle by Barbara Boxer.

"Whale," a whistle by Barbara Boxer.

This Native American gourd rattle is the creation of artist Micheline. “Gourds are the oldest plants in the world, but for me a new medium to experience,” Micheline said. “I find it fun and challenging to give them a new personality.”

Udu stoneware, created by Shana Brautigam – and it’s a drum!

This walrus whistle was created by Sally Cornwell. Fun fact: the tusks double as a can opener! (Second fun fact: In this case, “fun” means “made up”).
The Insider visited the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen gallery and took in its current exhibit of handmade musical instruments. Come along with us!