The Jarbowocky is a new type of water drum that allows drummers to dynamically alter the pitch of multiple base notes while still having both hands free to strike surfaces of varying timbre. It sounds like a cross between a cajon, a gamelan, and a water udu. The initial prototype consists of four different sized jars filled with variable amounts of liquid, which are housed in a split, hinged resonant wooden box with padded cradles that hold the jars in place. The Jarbowocky could be built in many varieties, from small and portable to full-scale orchestral instruments, with mounts and pedal systems. Many types of materials could be used for the water-tight containers (for example, glass, metal, clay), drum heads (metal, skin, resin, etc.) and frameworks. Removable, interchangeable shakers and rain sticks can be added to the inside of the resonant box in order to generate even more sounds.