Learning the basics of how to play a Tibetan singing bowl is a relatively easy process, but this instrument is capable of producing even more varied and interesting sounds with the right technique. The wah-wah technique and the water technique are two methods that will make playing your singing bowl a more enjoyable and interesting experience.
Technical Wah-Wah
To get started with this technique, start by singing the bowl the basic way: by running the mallet around the rim of the bowl until it produces a steady, even sound. Then release the mallet from the container. At this point, the sound should continue to reverberate even after the mallet has been removed. Raise the bowl to mouth level and pronounce the “wah-wah” syllables. You don’t have to say the sound out loud, as the simple act of opening and closing your mouth is what modifies the sound of your singing bowl. Experimenting with varying the space between the mouth and the outer rim will change the sound, and you may also notice that if you rotate the bowl there will be places where the sound is naturally louder than others.
water technique
For this technique, you must put a little water in the container. The amount of water needed will vary, but a good start is about 3/4 inch of water, being careful not to wet the rim of the container. Too much water will interfere with this technique, so be careful when filling your container. After an adequate amount of water has been added, sing the bowl using the basic technique around the rim. Once the bowl has begun to sound a clear, even tone, remove the mallet from the bowl. Then begin gently tilting the container and swirling the water. If done correctly, it will produce a sound similar to the song of dolphins.
These two techniques, when done correctly, will produce beautiful and unique music from your Tibetan singing bowl that you may never have heard before.