The melodica is a small portable instrument that combines a piano-type keyboard with wind sound production: the player blows into a mouthpiece while pressing the keys, and the sound, as in the harmonium, is given by metal reeds. This makes it something between a harmonica and a mini-organ.
The melodica was invented in the mid-20th century; thanks to its simplicity, cheapness, and pleasant sound, it became a popular instrument of children's music education in schools of many countries. But its possibilities are far wider: the warm, slightly “toy-like” yet expressive timbre of the melodica is prized by professionals too — from Jamaican dub and reggae to indie rock, jazz, and modern electronica. The melodica is an example of how a simple “teaching” instrument can become a full colour in the palette of world music.
