What is a found instrument?

A found instrument refers to an object that was not originally designed or intended for musical purposes but is repurposed to create sound. This concept is prevalent in various music genres, particularly in experimental and avant-garde music, where artists seek to expand the boundaries of what can be considered a musical instrument.

Found instruments can range from everyday objects like cans, bottles, and pieces of furniture to more unconventional items such as tools or industrial materials. The key aspect is that these objects are used creatively to produce sounds, thereby transforming their initial purpose into a musical context. This approach encourages innovation and often reflects a broader artistic philosophy about sound and music.

Understanding this concept highlights the fluid nature of music-making and the idea that sound can be generated from almost anything, challenging traditional notions of musical instruments.