5 traditional musical instruments to know
What's the story
Africa is a culturally rich continent, and its musical instruments reflect that vibrant heritage. The instruments not only produce some captivating sounds but also narrate tales of the communities that make them. From the percussion to stringed, each of the pieces has its own story to tell in African culture. Let's take a look at five unique African musical instruments, their origins and place in culture.
Percussion power
The djembe drum
The djembe drum is one of Africa's most popular percussion instruments. Hailing from West Africa, especially among the Mandinka people of Mali, the drum is traditionally carved from a single piece of wood and covered with animal skin. The djembe produces a wide range of tones and is commonly used in ceremonies and communal gatherings. Its ability to communicate messages through rhythm makes it an indispensable tool for storytelling and cultural expression.
Stringed elegance
The kora harp-lute
A unique harp-lute instrument, the kora is commonly associated with West Africa, particularly the Mandinka ethnic group. It has 21 strings made of fishing line or nylon, which are plucked with both hands while seated behind the instrument. The kora's melodic sound accompanies traditional songs that narrate historical events or praise people in the community. Its construction involves intricate craftsmanship using materials like calabash gourds.
Melodic simplicity
Mbira thumb piano
The mbira, also known as the thumb piano, originates from Zimbabwe and other parts of Southern Africa. It consists of metal tines attached to a wooden board that are plucked with thumbs to produce music characterized by its soothing melodies. Often used during spiritual ceremonies or social gatherings, the mbira holds significant cultural importance as it connects people with ancestral spirits through its enchanting tunes.
Rhythmic resonance
Balafon xylophone
The balafon, an ancient xylophone-like instrument, is common throughout West Africa across ethnic groups, including the Mande people in Guinea-Bissau or Burkina Faso's Bobo tribe members. They use it during festivals commemorating harvests or weddings alike. Made with wooden keys over resonators made of gourds, musicians hit these keys with mallets. This produces rhythmic patterns that strike deep within listeners' hearts.
Clay craftsmanship
Udu pot drum
The udu pot drum, originating from Nigeria's Igbo culture, is a percussion instrument consisting of clay pots. These pots, which look like water jugs, have holes that facilitate air flow when struck, creating deep bass sounds. Traditionally, women played the udu at weddings and funerals, and its unique tonal qualities now add depth to musical ensembles across the globe.