Annoying instruments

Today’s Bizarro:

(If you’re puzzled by the odd symbol in the cartoon — Dan Piraro says there’s just one in this strip — see this Page.)

In lists of instruments people find most annoying, the bagpipes and the accordion (with its close relatives the concertina and bandoneon) are reliably at the top or close to it, so a hybrid would be monstrous.

What makes for an annoying instrument? High pitch, loudness, and odd timbres are common characteristics, and being often played badly contributes, as does an association with lower-class enthusiasts.

Beyond bagpipes and accordion, the list of frequently despised instruments is long, including (in no particular order):

hurdy-gurdy, banjo, Jew(‘s) harp, kazoo, glass harmonica, calliope, glockenspiel, vuvuzela, melodion, harmonica, harp, recorder, ocarina, saxophone (especially the soprano saxophone), theremin, harpsichord, pan pipes, flute, dulcimer

One Response to “Annoying instruments”

  1. Tommy Boy Says:

    And the clarinet: an ill woodwind that no one blows good.

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