Water Organ: Instrument

The Water Organ was an ancient Chinese musical instrument used in religious ceremonies after the Hum dynasty brought about the end of the Blood Organ. The Blood Organ was filled with the blood of virgin children and created a formidable tone to banish nearby demons. The Water Organ was invented during the rice famine of 100AD, the young children were an essential component in the survival of the people and so it was suggested that in the religious ceremonies the blood be replaced by ordinary water.

The water organ can still be found in use today by dedicated amateur followers although usually for pleasure and not in religious tradition. The organ most famously made an appearance on Top of the Pops in 1976, when musician Xiu Miu Siu performed his hit "Huang Tung Wu" or "Blood Organ Revival." More recently, BBC Radio 2's Nigel Odgen (UK) has championed the Blood (and Water) Organ on his weekly slot "The Organist Entertains," broadcast Tuesdays 20:00-20:30.

External Links

• bloodorwater.com