Yerbomatophone

The yerbomatophone, also known as the “yerbomatophone d’amore,” is an informal, non-traditional musical instrument originating in Argentina. This peculiar instrument was created in the 1960s by Buenos Aires luthier Carlos Iraldi for the humorous musical ensemble Les Luthiers. The yerbomatophone is crafted from mate gourds, which are typically used in Argentina to hold the popular yerba mate infusion. These gourds are cut in half, sanded, and assembled to form an instrument that, when blown into or sung through, produces a uniquely amplified and distorted sound.

History of the Yerbomatophone

The yerbomatophone was one of the first instruments designed by Gerardo Masana, the founder of the renowned comedic musical group Les Luthiers. Les Luthiers became famous for their innovative and humorous use of “informal instruments”—musical instruments crafted from everyday objects. The yerbomatophone was conceived as part of this creative endeavor and has since become emblematic of the group’s style.

The instrument is made from the dried gourd traditionally used to prepare mate, a beloved infusion in Argentina and Uruguay. The gourd is carefully split in half, and the hemispheres are meticulously sanded to ensure the surfaces match. This meticulous preparation allows the gourd to function effectively as an acoustic resonator. When played, the yerbomatophone produces a sound that combines the human voice with the rough, buzzing resonance of the gourd, which adds a humorous and unique tonal quality.

Design and Construction

The yerbomatophone is composed of a mate gourd that has been cut in half, with both halves sanded until their surfaces fit together perfectly. This process ensures a consistent sound when the instrument is played. The musician blows into or sings through the opening of the yerbomatophone, causing the gourd to vibrate. This vibration amplifies and distorts the sound in a distinct way, producing a rich, buzzing timbre. This design makes it similar in function to some traditional resonating instruments, but the materials and construction are what give it its unique identity.

Playing Technique

The yerbomatophone is played by either blowing air through its opening or singing directly into it. The shape of the gourd and its unique acoustic properties distort and amplify the voice in an entertaining way. Players can use vocal techniques to vary pitch and resonance, making it a versatile, albeit informal, instrument. This characteristic buzzing sound makes it ideal for humorous performances, which is exactly how it has been used by the Les Luthiers ensemble.

Use in Music

The yerbomatophone is an informal instrument, meaning that it is rarely used in formal or classical settings. Its primary use is for comedic and entertainment purposes, mainly by Les Luthiers. The group, known for creating and performing with unconventional instruments, integrated the yerbomatophone into their performances as a way to add humor and a distinctive sound to their music. Today, the yerbomatophone is mainly used in Argentina and Uruguay, though its recognition has spread thanks to the popularity of Les Luthiers. The instrument’s unique sound and appearance make it an interesting piece of musical innovation that highlights the creativity of informal instrument-making.