Wind Chimes

 

When things that make sound if struck are drilled with holes, strung, suspended, and arranged in a certain way, they become another object entirely. The object could be called by many names; a musical instrument, a lucky charm, a trinket, a decoration, an artwork, or a wind chime. 

Most materials for wind chimes are either metal, bamboo, or wood. These are ideal because they already come in the form of tubes and rods. When struck with a clapper or against each other, they resonate with a soothing sound. Only a soft breeze is needed to start the chimes working. Aside from the metal wind chimes, the bamboo wind chimes, and the wooden wind chimes, there are other kinds. In art as in life, there are no hard and fast rules after all.

So it is that there are stained glass wind chimes, other glass wind chimes, shell, stone, junk wind chimes, and even solar wind chimes. There are mini chimes and large wind chimes. There are indoor and garden wind chimes. There are Woodstock wind chimes which are not only for home décor. These types are legitimate musical percussion instruments, used by exploratory musicians in their work. Some of these chimes are scientifically tuned to certain musical keys and melodies.

The bamboo wind chime is an example of the enduring look and sound of nature. This material has been used since ancient times. Copper wind chimes are made of a soft metal that produces a mellow sound. These are ideal for the outdoors as they do not rust, but oxidize beautifully. A solar wind chime has a modern look. These have mechanisms that allow the chime to produce sound on their own, or are otherwise installed with glowing orbs. Various designs are available for these solar powered gadgets.

The diversity of these things is astounding. The uses they are put to is varied as well. Some use these as personalized gift items. There are stores that offer to engrave messages and notes in a chime to make it special. Feng shui practitioners advice the use of tubular chimes in strategic locations in order to attract good fortune. Spiritual gurus know the importance of its resonating, tinkling, and melodious sound. Garden oases utilize the soothing sounds as part of the well designed relaxing atmosphere. Decorators and landscapers see this item as part of their repertoire of tips and tricks. The contribution in music circles has already been discussed.