Inspiring musicians to embrace simplicity with instruments designed to bring out the purest sound and musical expression.
Welcome to Auris Musikinstrument AB
Auris is a Swedish company based in Järna, south of Stockholm. All our instruments are designed by owner and director Kjell Andersson, and we take pride in our unique approach to craftsmanship. In our production facilities, people with learning disabilities work side by side with our team, contributing to the making of high-quality musical instruments. Today, 95% of our production is exported worldwide, and we also manufacture products or components under license for other companies.
Auris Instruments – Designed for Multiple Uses
Auris Musikinstrument AB
Kjell Andersson
The Philosophy of Less – Auris Musical Instruments
The Art of Less – Natural Sound, Pure Expression
In a world where more is often seen as better, we embrace the philosophy of less—less artificial materials, less excess, and less compromise—while preserving the essence of sound, craftsmanship, and musicality.
Less Synthetic, More Natural
Traditional percussion instruments like lyres, glockenspiels, xylophones, and marimbas are at their best when crafted from carefully selected natural materials. Wood, metal, and organic components don’t just shape the instrument’s durability—they define its voice, resonance, and warmth. By choosing sustainable, high-quality materials, we ensure a sound that is rich, authentic, and deeply expressive.
Less Weight, More Resonance
Many modern percussion instruments prioritize mass production over musical integrity, adding unnecessary weight and artificial reinforcements. By refining our designs and focusing on essential elements, we create instruments that are not only easier to handle and transport but also allow the natural vibrations of wood and metal to breathe freely—enhancing tone, projection, and playability.
Less Complexity, More Connection
Music should flow effortlessly, without interference from over-engineered constructions or synthetic dampening. With a streamlined approach to design and material selection, our instruments offer a more direct connection between the musician and the music, allowing for intuitive playability and deeper artistic expression.
Less Waste, More Sustainability
Natural materials aren’t just about sound—they’re about responsibility. By prioritizing sustainably sourced wood and durable metals, we minimize waste and reduce our environmental impact. Each instrument is built with longevity in mind, ensuring a lasting musical experience that doesn’t rely on disposable, short-lived alternatives.
The Essence of Percussion, Redefined
The philosophy of less isn’t about removing—it’s about refining. It’s about stripping away the unnecessary to reveal the true voice of an instrument. By embracing natural materials and thoughtful design, we honor tradition while shaping the future of percussion—where every note is pure, every sound is intentional, and every instrument is built to inspire.
Music for Children
Music for Children
Auris instruments are ideal for introducing young children to the world of music. Whether used for playful exploration, movement, dance, or storytelling, they encourage creativity and joyful expression.
- The large size of the instruments aligns with children’s fine motor skill development.
- The thick mallets ensure a firm grip, even during enthusiastic playing.
- The wide tone bars make it easy for children to strike the right notes.
- The soft, warm sound is gentle on young ears, creating a pleasant musical experience.
The Pentatonic Scale in Music Therapy
The Pentatonic Scale in Music Therapy
Our instruments are also highly valued in music therapy, particularly for people with learning disabilities. The pentatonic scale, with its simple and harmonious structure, makes it easy to explore melodies without the risk of playing “wrong” notes.
- The limited number of tones makes orientation on the scale intuitive.
- The large size allows multiple players to play together, encouraging interaction and guidance.
- The Amadinda can accommodate up to four players at once, fostering collaborative play.
- Additional softwood sticks can be used to produce a sharper, rhythmic effect, inspired by the traditional playing style of the African Pygmies, who originally developed the Amadinda.
For Professional Musicians
For Professional Musicians
The Auris Amadinda is also cherished by professional musicians for its rich, resonant sound that enhances rhythm and melody. Its warm, organic tones inspire musical creativity and bring an uplifting energy to performances.
The Magic of the Pentatonic Scale
The Magic of the Pentatonic Scale
Auris pentatonic instruments are tuned to a five-tone (pentatonic) scale: d-e-g-a-h, with d and e repeated.
This scale allows for complete improvisational freedom—every combination of notes sounds harmonious. This creates an empowering “I can” experience, making music more accessible and enjoyable. Especially in rhythmic playing, the absence of harmonic restrictions allows for a natural, flowing musical expression.
The pentatonic scale is a fundamental part of music across cultures and eras:
- Found in ancient and modern folk music, classical compositions, and contemporary songs.
- A core element of traditional Chinese music.
- Spontaneously sung and played by children worldwide.
For young children—particularly from infancy to around third grade—this scale resonates deeply with their natural musical instincts, making it an ideal foundation for learning through play, collaboration, and listening.
Expanding the Scale
Expanding the Scale
The Auris Amadinda can be extended with additional tones—c and f—allowing for more than 20 variations of seven-tone scales. Semitone bars can also be ordered separately. Each Amadinda comes with one pair of large, soft rubber mallets, designed to produce a warm, full-bodied sound.
We Hope You Enjoy Playing Our Instruments!
