Instruments to compose a song or theme for setting in the desert

Question

Im composing a song or theme for a setting in the desert. I'm trying to get instruments to use to capture the feeling being in the desert.

This question is... rather broad. Duke Ellington did just fine with a jazz ensemble instrumentation; and I would argue that to say thematic feelings are dependent on instrumentation is to diminish both the thematic feeling and the instrument in question. Rather than attempting to match instruments to mood, I would instead suggest asking for recommendations of instruments common in desert-based musical cultures if that's really what you want.
Sorry, I have to vote to close, not only for the reasons NReilingh gives, but also because "desert" is so broad. The dunes of the Sahara feel completely different to the scrubland of the Navajo.
You guys are thinking to much. I'm simply asking for advice for instruments to use. The feeling is up to me and how to use those instruments.

luser droog · Answer 1 · 2012-01-28 21:34:36Z

Well, I've never been to the desert, but I watch a lot of documentaries. The only sound in the desert itself is the wind and the sand.

So maybe some soft woodwinds?

And scraping noises. Drums with brushes. Shakers. A soft-shoe tap-dancer?

cornbread ninja · Answer 2 · 2012-01-28 03:05:33Z

up vote 1 down vote

What kind of mood? Anything like this or this? At any rate, a sitar and some bongos would be a good start.

answered Jan 28 '12 at 3:05

cornbread ninja
68329

	I do have those instruments. Sitar was my first on the list. I tried bongos but I wasn't impressed with the sound I was looking for so I switched to a timpani. – DimebagFan Jan 28 '12 at 3:28
	I always think of double reed instruments, like oboe, when I think of desert (or Egyptian) music. – Reina Abolofia Jan 28 '12 at 4:46
	Maracas! That kind of percussive instrument. – Edward Bowles Feb 13 '12 at 11:00

2 Answers