Chordophones are musical instruments that produce sound through vibrating strings. They are an essential part of many traditional and modern music styles, including African music. In this article, we will explore some examples of chordophones found in African music. From the traditional African harp to the modern electric guitar, these instruments have played a significant role in shaping the sound of African music. Join us as we dive into the world of chordophones in African music and discover the unique sounds that they produce.
In African music, chordophones are musical instruments that produce sound through vibrating strings. Examples of chordophones found in African music include the kora, a West African instrument consisting of a gourd or calabash body and a neck with 21 strings; the ngoni, a five-string instrument commonly used in West Africa; the xylophone, a wooden instrument with metal keys that is popular in many African countries; and the thumb piano, a simple instrument made from a flat piece of wood or bamboo with metal strips that is played by pressing down on the strips with the thumbs.
Types of Chordophones in African Music
String Instruments
1. Kora
The Kora is a traditional string instrument commonly found in West African music. It is a lute-like instrument that has a gourd or calabash as its resonator and a wooden neck with strings attached to it. The Kora has 21 strings, which are usually made from animal intestine or nylon. The strings are arranged in two groups, one group of 10 and the other group of 11 strings. The Kora is played by plucking or scraping the strings with the thumbs and fingers of both hands, creating a unique and haunting sound.
2. Diddi
The Diddi is a traditional string instrument that is commonly found in the Sahel region of Africa. It is a one-stringed instrument that is played with a bow. The Diddi has a small resonator made from a gourd or a coconut shell, and a wooden neck with a single string attached to it. The string is usually made from animal intestine or nylon. The Diddi is played by using a bow to create a sustained note, while the musician varies the sound by changing the pressure and angle of the bow on the string.
3. Ngoni
The Ngoni is a traditional string instrument that is commonly found in West Africa. It is a lute-like instrument that has a resonator made from a calabash or a wooden box. The Ngoni has a wooden neck with strings attached to it, and the strings are usually made from animal intestine or nylon. The Ngoni has four or five strings, which are played with the fingers or a pick. The Ngoni is often used in traditional music, as well as in modern popular music in West Africa.
4. Xalam
The Xalam is a traditional string instrument that is commonly found in West Africa. It is a lute-like instrument that has a gourd or calabash as its resonator and a wooden neck with strings attached to it. The Xalam has three or four strings, which are usually made from animal intestine or nylon. The Xalam is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a pick, creating a fast and lively sound.
5. Cajón
The Cajón is a traditional drum-like instrument that is commonly found in Peru, but it has also been adopted in some African music traditions. It is a box-shaped instrument that is played by striking the front or sides with the hands, fingers, or various implements. The Cajón has no strings, but it is included in this list because it is a percussion instrument that is often used in conjunction with string instruments in African music.
Percussion Instruments
1. Mbira
- Mbira is a musical instrument commonly found in East and Southern Africa.
- It is also known as the thumb piano or the African piano.
- The mbira consists of a wooden frame with metal keys or teeth attached to it.
- The keys or teeth are plucked with the thumbs and fingers to produce a melody.
- Mbira is often used in traditional African music, but it has also been incorporated into modern music genres.
2. Balafon
- The balafon is a xylophone-like instrument that is commonly found in West Africa.
- It consists of a series of wooden keys of different lengths placed on a wooden frame.
- The keys are struck with small sticks or mallets to produce a melody.
- The balafon is often used in traditional African music, especially in ceremonies and celebrations.
- It is also used in contemporary music genres such as jazz and pop.
3. Djembe
- The djembe is a drum that is commonly found in West Africa.
- It is a goblet-shaped drum with a skin head and a wooden body.
- The djembe is played with the hands, using a variety of techniques to produce different sounds.
- It is often used in traditional African music, especially in dance music.
- It has also been incorporated into modern music genres such as rock and pop.
4. Djun Djun
- The djun djun is a drum that is commonly found in West Africa, especially in the Mandinka culture.
- It is a double-skinned drum with a narrow waist and two drumheads.
- The djun djun is played with the hands or with sticks, using a variety of techniques to produce different sounds.
- It has also been incorporated into modern music genres such as jazz and pop.
5. Shekere
- The shekere is a musical instrument that is commonly found in West Africa.
- It is a gourd with beads or seeds embedded in it.
- The shekere is shaken or hit with the hand to produce a sound.
- It has also been incorporated into modern music genres such as pop and hip-hop.
Other Instruments
There are several other chordophones that are found in African music. These instruments are not as commonly known as the ones mentioned in the previous sections, but they still play an important role in the musical culture of Africa. Here are some examples:
1. Bowl Lyre
The bowl lyre is a stringed instrument that is found in many parts of Africa. It consists of a shallow bowl that is used as a resonator, and a neck that is attached to the bowl. The strings are attached to the neck and are plucked or strummed with the fingers or a bow. The bowl lyre is often used in traditional African music, and it is also used in religious ceremonies.
2. Oud
The oud is a stringed instrument that is similar to the lute. It is found in many parts of the world, including Africa. The oud has a pear-shaped body and a neck that is attached to the body. The strings are attached to the neck and are plucked or strummed with the fingers or a pick. The oud is often used in traditional African music, and it is also used in religious ceremonies.
3. Tar
The tar is a stringed instrument that is found in Iran and other parts of the Middle East. It is also found in some parts of Africa, where it is used in traditional music. The tar has a long neck and a shallow body, and it is played with a pick or the fingers. The tar is often used in ensemble music, and it is also used in religious ceremonies.
4. Setar
The setar is a stringed instrument that is found in Iran and other parts of the Middle East. It is also found in some parts of Africa, where it is used in traditional music. The setar has a long neck and a shallow body, and it is played with a pick or the fingers. The setar is often used in ensemble music, and it is also used in religious ceremonies.
5. Kamancheh
The kamancheh is a stringed instrument that is found in Iran and other parts of the Middle East. It is also found in some parts of Africa, where it is used in traditional music. The kamancheh has a long neck and a shallow body, and it is played with a bow or the fingers. The kamancheh is often used in ensemble music, and it is also used in religious ceremonies.
How Chordophones are Used in African Music
Melodic and Harmonic Roles
1. Lead Melody
In African music, chordophones are often used to play the lead melody, which is the primary tune that the listener follows. This melody is usually played on a solo instrument, such as a guitar or a violin, and it often carries the emotional weight of the song. The lead melody is often supported by other instruments, such as drums or percussion, which provide rhythm and drive the song forward.
2. Harmony and Counterpoint
Chordophones can also be used to create harmony and counterpoint in African music. Harmony refers to the combination of two or more notes played at the same time, and it can add depth and richness to the music. Counterpoint is the interweaving of two or more melodies, and it can create a sense of tension and release that is central to many African musical traditions.
In both cases, the chordophone plays a crucial role in creating a sense of balance and unity in the music. The instruments work together to create a rich and complex sound that is greater than the sum of its parts. This interplay between melody, harmony, and counterpoint is a hallmark of African music, and it is one of the things that makes it so distinctive and compelling.
Cultural Significance of Chordophones in African Music
1. Symbolism and Meaning
Chordophones play a significant role in African music, with each instrument often carrying symbolic meaning. For example, the kora, a West African instrument, is often associated with the griot tradition and is believed to represent the soul of the griot’s ancestors. Similarly, the ngoni, another West African instrument, is said to represent the connection between the living and the dead.
2. Social and Ceremonial Uses
Chordophones also hold great importance in social and ceremonial contexts in African music. Instruments like the xalam, a North African instrument, are played during celebrations and weddings, while the lute, found in West Africa, is played during funerals and other ceremonies. The mandinka, another West African instrument, is also played during important life events, such as births, coming-of-age ceremonies, and coronations.
Famous Chordophone Musicians in Africa
Kora Players
1. Jali Mansongumba
Jali Mansongumba is a renowned kora player from Mali. He hails from the Mandinka ethnic group and is known for his exceptional skills in playing the kora, a traditional West African instrument. Mansongumba has been playing the kora since he was a child and has performed with many well-known musicians both in Africa and around the world.
2. Alhaji Baba Sallah
Alhaji Baba Sallah is a Griot kora player from Guinea. He is known for his energetic and dynamic performances, which showcase his exceptional skills in playing the kora. Sallah has performed with many renowned musicians, including the Kronos Quartet, and has released several albums, including “Kora: The Sound of West Africa” and “Kora Blues”.
3. Toumani Diabate
Toumani Diabate is a Malian kora player who is widely regarded as one of the greatest kora players of all time. He has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Traditional World Music Album, and has collaborated with many well-known musicians, including Taj Mahal and k.d. lang. Diabate has released several albums, including “Kora” and “Afrodesiac”, which showcase his exceptional skills in playing the kora.
Mbira Players
1. Thomas Mapfumo
Thomas Mapfumo is a renowned Zimbabwean musician who is widely regarded as the “Father of Chimurenga music.” He is best known for his revolutionary music that has been used as a tool for political activism and social commentary. Mapfumo’s music is deeply rooted in traditional Shona music, and he has incorporated elements of blues, jazz, and reggae into his sound. His unique style of playing the mbira, a traditional African instrument, has earned him international acclaim and has inspired many other musicians in Africa and beyond.
2. Chiwoniso Marava
Chiwoniso Marava is a Zimbabwean musician who is known for her powerful voice and her virtuosity on the mbira. She has been performing and recording music since the age of 13 and has released several albums that showcase her talent as a musician and songwriter. Marava’s music is deeply rooted in traditional Shona music, but she has also incorporated elements of other genres, including jazz, blues, and hip-hop. Her music is known for its powerful messages of love, unity, and social justice, and she has been recognized as a leading voice in the new generation of African musicians.
3. Hope Masike
Hope Masike is a Zimbabwean musician who is known for her innovative approach to the mbira. She has developed a unique style of playing the instrument that incorporates elements of other genres, including jazz, blues, and Afro-jazz. Masike’s music is deeply rooted in traditional Shona music, but she has also explored new sounds and techniques that have earned her recognition as one of the most innovative mbira players in Africa today. Her music is known for its powerful messages of love, unity, and social justice, and she has been recognized as a leading voice in the new generation of African musicians.
Other Notable Musicians
1. Baaba Maal
Baaba Maal is a well-known musician from Senegal who is widely recognized for his contributions to West African music. He is a master of the sabar, a family of drums that are central to many West African musical traditions. In addition to his work as a drummer, Maal is also a skilled singer and has released numerous albums that blend traditional West African music with modern elements.
2. Fatoumata Diawara
Fatoumata Diawara is a Malian musician who is known for her unique style, which blends traditional Malian music with elements of funk, blues, and jazz. She is a skilled guitarist and has released several albums that showcase her virtuosity on the instrument. Diawara is also known for her powerful voice and her lyrics, which often address social and political issues.
3. Salif Keita
Salif Keita is a legendary musician from Mali who is widely regarded as one of the greatest voices in African music. He is known for his work as a singer and as a composer, and has released numerous albums that blend traditional Malian music with elements of jazz, funk, and pop. Keita is also a master of the kora, a West African harp-like instrument, and has incorporated it into his music alongside other chordophones such as the guitar and the bass.
The Evolution of Chordophones in African Music
Historical and Geographic Influences
1. Trans-Saharan Trade Routes
The Trans-Saharan trade routes played a significant role in the dissemination of musical instruments across Africa. These routes facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas between different regions, leading to the development of unique musical traditions. Chordophones, including the lute-like instrument known as the oud, were introduced to North Africa from the Middle East via these routes. The oud, which is still widely used in North African music today, has a pear-shaped body and a neck with a resonator and strings.
2. Arab and European Influences
Arab and European influences also had a profound impact on the evolution of chordophones in African music. Arab traders and settlers brought with them their own musical traditions, which were often characterized by the use of stringed instruments such as the oud and the lute. European colonizers, on the other hand, introduced new types of chordophones, such as the guitar, which became popular across the continent.
3. Colonialism and Modernization
The colonial period had a significant impact on the development of African music. European colonizers often viewed African music as primitive and sought to impose their own musical traditions on the colonized populations. However, this also led to the fusion of different musical styles, resulting in the creation of new and unique chordophones. For example, the kwela, a type of piano used in South African township music, was created by modifying a guitar. Similarly, the marovane, a type of guitar popular in Madagascar, was developed by adapting a European instrument to suit local musical styles.
Overall, the historical and geographic influences on the evolution of chordophones in African music have been diverse and complex. The exchange of ideas and instruments through trade routes, the influence of Arab and European cultures, and the impact of colonialism have all contributed to the rich tapestry of musical traditions found across the continent.
Technological Advancements and Innovations
1. Electrification and Electronic Instruments
In recent years, the incorporation of technology has had a significant impact on African music. Electrification has enabled musicians to amplify their instruments, making it possible for them to perform in larger venues and reach wider audiences. This has led to the development of electronic instruments, such as the electric guitar and synthesizer, which have become staples in many African music genres. These instruments have allowed musicians to experiment with new sounds and techniques, creating a unique fusion of traditional and modern elements.
2. Indigenous Instrument Development
African musicians have also been innovative in the development of new instruments. For example, the kora is a West African instrument that has been around for centuries, but continues to evolve with new techniques and materials. The ngoni, a lute-like instrument, is another example of an indigenous instrument that has been developed and adapted by musicians across Africa. These instruments have helped to preserve traditional music while also pushing the boundaries of what is possible with chordophones.
3. Cross-Cultural Collaboration and Fusion
The influence of African music has also spread to other parts of the world, leading to cross-cultural collaboration and fusion. Musicians from different cultures are coming together to create new sounds and styles, blending traditional African instruments with modern sounds and technology. This has led to the creation of new genres, such as Afrobeat and Afro-fusion, which combine elements of African music with other styles, such as funk, jazz, and hip-hop. These collaborations have not only expanded the reach of African music but have also enriched the music of other cultures, creating a unique and diverse sound that reflects the global community.
FAQs
1. What is a chordophone?
A chordophone is a musical instrument that produces sound through vibrating strings. Examples of chordophones include guitars, violins, cellos, and harps.
2. What are some examples of chordophones found in African music?
There are many different types of chordophones used in African music, including the kora, oud, ngoni, and mbira. These instruments are often made from local materials and have unique sounds that are essential to the music of their respective regions.
3. What is the kora?
The kora is a West African chordophone that is traditionally made from a gourd covered in cow skin. It has a distinctive sound that is created by plucking or scraping the strings with the fingers or a pick. The kora is a key instrument in many West African music traditions and is often used to accompany singing or other instruments.
4. What is the oud?
The oud is a chordophone that is commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African music. It is similar in shape to a guitar, but has a slightly different tuning and sound. The oud is typically played with a plectrum or the fingers and is often used to accompany singing or other instruments.
5. What is the ngoni?
The ngoni is a chordophone that is used in West African music, particularly in Mali and neighboring countries. It is similar in shape to a guitar, but has a distinctive sound that is created by plucking or strumming the strings. The ngoni is often used to accompany singing or other instruments and is an important part of many West African music traditions.
6. What is the mbira?
The mbira is a chordophone that is used in East African music, particularly in Zimbabwe. It is made from a wooden frame with metal keys or metal plates that are struck with the fingers or a pick. The mbira has a unique sound that is essential to many East African music traditions and is often used to accompany singing or other instruments.