The origins of the xylophone can be traced to Asia, where it was thought to spread to Africa. The simplest types of xylophones consist of a pair of bars that lay across the player’s legs. Around 1500, the xylophone arrived in Europe where it was used as a folk instrument. Eventually, it was employed in more classical settings such as orchestras. Sound is created by striking different sizes of wood, stone, or metal bars. The size of the instrument varies, with some so large that it requires three players using six mallets. The xylophone in the photo above was built as a toy for a child.