What are the 5 most popular musical instruments from Africa?

Africa is a continent rich in culture and tradition, and its music is no exception. From the soulful sounds of the mbira to the rhythmic beats of the djembe, African music is known for its diverse and captivating instrumentation. In this article, we will explore the top 5 most popular musical instruments from Africa, and discover the unique cultural significance and history behind each one. Whether you’re a musician or simply a lover of music, this list is sure to inspire and delight. So let’s dive in and discover the instruments that have captivated audiences for generations.

The Kora

Brief history of the Kora

The Kora is a stringed musical instrument that is widely recognized as a symbol of West African music. It has been in existence for centuries, with its origins traced back to the Mandinka people of West Africa, particularly in present-day Gambia, Senegal, Guinea-Bissau, and Mali.

The Kora has a unique history that is intertwined with the cultural and social aspects of the Mandinka people. It is believed to have been invented by a legendary Mandinka prince named Bundu Kulla who wanted to create an instrument that could be played while on horseback. According to the legend, Bundu Kulla created the Kora by cutting a calabash (a type of gourd) in half and covering it with cow skin. He then attached strings to the calabash and attached a bridge to the bottom half of the calabash, which became the resonator.

The Kora quickly became popular among the Mandinka people, and it was played during various ceremonies and celebrations. The instrument’s popularity spread to other parts of West Africa, and it became an essential part of West African music. The Kora is typically played with the thumbs and index fingers, and it produces a distinctive sound that is characterized by its melodic and rhythmic qualities.

Over the years, the Kora has undergone some changes, with different variations emerging in different parts of West Africa. However, the basic design and construction of the instrument have remained largely unchanged. Today, the Kora is widely recognized as a symbol of West African music, and it continues to be played by musicians all over the world.

How to play the Kora

The Kora is a West African instrument that is traditionally played by the Griot caste of musicians. It is a stringed instrument that has a skin body and a wooden neck with 21 strings. The strings are plucked with the thumb and fingers of both hands.

Here are some steps to help you learn how to play the Kora:

1. Choose the right Kora: There are different types of Koras, each with its own unique sound. It is important to choose the right Kora that suits your style and preference.
2. Learn the basic tuning: The Kora has a unique tuning system that requires some practice to master. It is important to learn the basic tuning of the Kora before playing it.
3. Learn the basic chords: The Kora has a limited number of chords that are used in most songs. It is important to learn the basic chords before attempting to play any song.
4. Practice plucking the strings: The Kora is played by plucking the strings with the thumb and fingers of both hands. It is important to practice plucking the strings to develop the right technique.
5. Learn the rhythm: The Kora is played with a specific rhythm that is unique to West African music. It is important to learn the rhythm and practice playing along with a drum beat.
6. Learn the songs: The Kora is typically played to accompany songs. It is important to learn the songs and practice playing along with them.
7. Experiment with different techniques: Once you have mastered the basic techniques of playing the Kora, you can experiment with different techniques to create your own unique sound.

In conclusion, learning how to play the Kora requires patience, practice, and dedication. With time and effort, you can master the art of playing this beautiful West African instrument.

The Djembe

Origins of the Djembe

The djembe is a popular musical instrument that originated from West Africa, specifically from the Mandinka people of Mali. The exact origins of the djembe are unclear, but it is believed to have been invented over 500 years ago. The djembe is a drum made from a hollow wooden shell, covered with animal skin, and played with the hands.

One of the earliest recorded djembes was found in the Niger River valley, dating back to the 13th century. It is believed that the djembe was originally used in religious ceremonies and was played to communicate with the spirit world. Over time, the djembe became a more secular instrument and was used in a variety of musical contexts, including traditional music, dance, and theater.

The djembe’s unique design, with its goblet shape and skin head, makes it a versatile instrument that can produce a wide range of sounds. Its simplicity and portability also make it an accessible instrument for people of all ages and skill levels. Today, the djembe is a popular instrument in many parts of the world and is used in a variety of musical genres, from traditional African music to modern pop and rock.

Djembe playing techniques

Djembe playing techniques are essential for producing a variety of sounds from this drum. Here are some techniques commonly used by djembe players:

1. Bass Drum Technique: This technique involves striking the center of the djembe with a stick to produce a deep, resonant sound.
2. Snare Drum Technique: The snare drum technique involves placing a thin piece of goat skin on the side of the djembe, and then striking it with a stick to produce a sharp, snappy sound.
3. Muffling Technique: This technique involves placing a piece of cloth or a finger on the drumhead to muffle the sound and produce a more mellow tone.
4. Cross-Sticking Technique: This technique involves striking the edge of the drumhead with the tip of the stick, creating a sharp, crisp sound.
5. Rimshot Technique: The rimshot technique involves striking the edge of the drumhead with the tip of the stick, creating a sharp, crisp sound.
6. Finger Snap Technique: This technique involves snapping the fingers while playing the djembe to create a rhythmic sound.
7. Bell Ringing Technique: The bell ringing technique involves shaking the bells on the djembe to create a jingling sound.
8. Bass Roll Technique: This technique involves rapidly rolling the bass drum with the fingers to create a rapid, drumming sound.
9. Open and Close Tuning Technique: This technique involves adjusting the tension of the drumhead to produce different tones and sounds.
10. Slap Technique: The slap technique involves slapping the djembe with the hand to create a sharp, percussive sound.

Overall, the techniques used to play the djembe are vast and varied, and can be used to create a wide range of rhythms and sounds. The key to mastering these techniques is practice, as with any musical instrument.

The Mbira

Introduction to the Mbira

The Mbira is a traditional musical instrument that originated in Africa and is widely used in various cultural and musical traditions across the continent. It is also known as the “thumb piano” or “kalimba” and is played by plucking or hitting the metal keys with the thumbs or fingers.

The Mbira has a rich history and cultural significance in Africa, and its origins can be traced back to ancient times. It is believed to have been invented by the Shona people of Zimbabwe over 1,000 years ago, and since then, it has spread to other parts of Africa and beyond.

The Mbira is typically made from a small wooden soundboard, with metal keys attached to it. The keys are arranged in a specific pattern, and the player uses their thumbs or fingers to pluck or hit the keys to produce different notes and rhythms. The Mbira is versatile and can be played solo or in ensembles, and it is often used in traditional music, dance, and rituals.

One of the unique features of the Mbira is its pentatonic scale, which consists of five notes, making it easy to learn and play. The instrument’s sound is characterized by its distinctive, resonant timbre, which is capable of producing a wide range of tones and overtones.

The Mbira has become a symbol of African culture and identity, and it continues to be played and enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Its popularity has transcended borders, and it has been adopted and adapted by musicians and artists around the world, making it a truly global instrument.

Traditional Mbira music

Mbira music is a traditional form of music that originated in Africa, specifically in the Shona-speaking regions of Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Malawi. It is a complex and dynamic music genre that is played on a traditional instrument known as the mbira, which is also referred to as the “sansa” or “thumb piano.”

Traditional Mbira music is characterized by its use of a variety of sounds and rhythms that are created by plucking and striking the metal keys of the mbira. The mbira has a distinctive sound that is produced by a series of metal keys that are attached to a wooden soundboard. The keys are arranged in a specific pattern, and the musician uses their thumbs and fingers to pluck and strike the keys to create different sounds and melodies.

The mbira is often accompanied by other traditional African instruments such as drums, rattles, and horns, which provide a rich and complex rhythmic background to the music. The mbira’s melodic lines are often intertwined with the other instruments, creating a layered and intricate sound that is unique to traditional Mbira music.

One of the unique features of traditional Mbira music is its use of call-and-response patterns, which is a common feature in African music. In this style of music, a musician will play a melody, and the other musicians will respond with a different melody, creating a dynamic and engaging musical experience.

Traditional Mbira music is often used in cultural ceremonies and celebrations, such as weddings, funerals, and religious rituals. It is also used as a form of storytelling, with the music conveying important cultural and historical narratives. The music is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of the Shona-speaking people, and it is considered an essential part of their cultural heritage.

In conclusion, traditional Mbira music is a rich and complex musical genre that is deeply rooted in African culture and traditions. Its use of unique sounds and rhythms, call-and-response patterns, and the combination of different instruments make it a truly unique and captivating musical experience.

The Xylophone

Xylophone types

There are several types of xylophones that are commonly used in African music. Some of the most popular include:

• West African Xylophone: This type of xylophone is also known as the “gyil” and is commonly used in the music of the Ewe people of Ghana and the Ivory Coast. It has a distinctive sound and is played with two sticks.
• Central African Xylophone: This type of xylophone is also known as the “likembe” and is commonly used in the music of the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It has a higher pitch than the West African xylophone and is played with one stick.
• East African Xylophone: This type of xylophone is also known as the “marimba” and is commonly used in the music of the Wakhanya people of Tanzania and the Sukuma people of Kenya. It has a mellower sound than the West African xylophone and is played with two sticks.
• Southern African Xylophone: This type of xylophone is also known as the “kalimba” and is commonly used in the music of the Shona people of Zimbabwe. It has a buzzing sound and is played with two sticks.
• Northern African Xylophone: This type of xylophone is also known as the “darbuka” and is commonly used in the music of the Bedouin people of Egypt. It has a deep, resonant sound and is played with a single stick.

Each type of xylophone has its own unique sound and is used in different ways in African music.

Playing the Xylophone

Playing the xylophone is a skill that requires patience, dedication, and musical talent. To play the xylophone, one must first learn how to read sheet music or tablature, which indicates the pitch and duration of each note. Once the musician has mastered this skill, they can begin to play the xylophone.

The xylophone is played by striking the bars with mallets. The mallets are usually made of wood or plastic, and they are designed to produce a clear, crisp sound. To produce a good sound, the musician must hold the mallets at the right angle and strike the bars with the right force.

Playing the xylophone requires good hand-eye coordination, as the musician must be able to strike the right bar at the right time. It also requires a good sense of rhythm and timing, as the xylophone is often used to provide a rhythmic background for other instruments or vocals.

To improve their skills, many xylophone players practice for hours each day, honing their technique and perfecting their sound. Some musicians also experiment with different types of mallets or bars to find the one that produces the best sound for their playing style.

In addition to its use in traditional African music, the xylophone is also popular in classical music and is often featured in orchestral and chamber music compositions. Whether played solo or in an ensemble, the xylophone is a versatile instrument that can add depth and complexity to any musical piece.

The Flute

African Flute styles

African flutes have a rich and diverse history, with each region producing its own unique style. The flute’s versatility allows it to be played in a variety of musical genres, from traditional folk music to modern pop.

One of the most popular African flute styles is the Xylophone. This instrument is commonly found in West Africa and is played by striking the keys with small sticks. The sound of the Xylophone is bright and high-pitched, making it a popular choice for dance music.

Another popular African flute style is the Doussn’goni. This instrument is found in West Africa and is played by pressing the keys with the fingers or a small stick. The Doussn’goni has a warm, mellow sound that is often used in traditional court music.

The Ocarina is another popular African flute style. This instrument is found in many parts of Africa and is played by covering holes with the fingers. The Ocarina has a sweet, flute-like sound and is often used in traditional healing ceremonies.

The Flute is also popular in Africa, with many different styles found throughout the continent. The North African Flute, for example, is made from bamboo and has a distinctive, mournful sound. The East African Flute, on the other hand, is often made from a gourd and has a bright, cheerful sound.

The Mbira is a traditional African flute style that is found in many parts of Africa. This instrument is played by pressing down on a series of metal keys with the thumbs and plucking the strings with the fingers. The Mbira has a complex, layered sound that is often used in religious music.

Overall, African flutes are a diverse and vibrant part of the continent’s musical heritage. Each style has its own unique sound and is an important part of the musical traditions of the region.

Popular Flute instruments

African flutes have a distinctive sound that is highly regarded by musicians and music lovers around the world. There are many different types of flutes used in African music, each with its own unique characteristics and playing style. Here are five of the most popular flute instruments from Africa:

1. The Xylophone: The xylophone is a wooden instrument consisting of a series of tuned bars that are struck with mallets. It is widely used in West African music, particularly in the genres of highlife and Afro-pop. The xylophone is known for its bright, cheerful sound and is often featured as a solo instrument in ensembles.
2. The Doussn’goni: The doussn’goni is a stringed instrument that is similar to a banjo but has a longer neck and a resonator that amplifies the sound. It is commonly used in West African music, particularly in the genres of blues and jazz. The doussn’goni is known for its rich, full sound and is often featured as a solo instrument in ensembles.
3. The Kora: The kora is a stringed instrument that is played with both hands and has a distinctive sound that is characterized by its melodic patterns and repetitive rhythms. It is commonly used in West African music, particularly in the genres of griot and mandinka. The kora is known for its complex and intricate sound and is often featured as a solo instrument in ensembles.
4. The Flute: The flute is a woodwind instrument that is played with the mouth and has a distinctive sound that is characterized by its high, clear notes. It is commonly used in East African music, particularly in the genres of taarab and benga. The flute is known for its expressive and emotive sound and is often featured as a solo instrument in ensembles.
5. The Mbira: The mbira is a plucked instrument that is played with the fingers and has a distinctive sound that is characterized by its complex and intricate patterns. It is commonly used in East African music, particularly in the genres of marabi and chaka. The mbira is known for its percussive and rhythmic sound and is often featured as a solo instrument in ensembles.

Other Musical Instruments from Africa

There are countless musical instruments from Africa that have captivated the world with their unique sounds and craftsmanship. From stringed instruments like the kora and the oud to percussion instruments like the djembe and the shekere, Africa has a rich history of musical innovation. Here are a few other musical instruments from Africa that deserve recognition:

1. Kora: The kora is a 21-stringed instrument that is played by Griot musicians in West Africa. It is traditionally made from a gourd and a long neck, and is plucked with the fingers or a pick. The kora has a distinctive sound that is both melodic and percussive, and is often used to accompany vocalists or other instruments.
2. Oud: The oud is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African music. It has a pear-shaped body and four strings, and is played with a pick or the fingers. The oud has a rich, mellow sound that is often used to create haunting melodies and complex harmonies.
3. Djembe: The djembe is a goblet-shaped drum that is played with the hands or a stick. It is commonly used in West African music, and is known for its deep, resonant sound. The djembe is often used to create a rhythmic foundation for other instruments or to accompany vocalists.
4. Shekere: The shekere is a percussion instrument that is made from a gourd filled with seeds or beads. It is played by shaking it in one hand while striking it with a stick in the other hand. The shekere has a bright, lively sound that is often used to add texture and energy to music.
5. Xylophone: The xylophone is a percussion instrument that is common in many parts of Africa. It is made from a series of wooden bars that are struck with mallets, and is known for its bright, metallic sound. The xylophone is often used to create complex rhythms and melodies, and is a staple of many traditional African ensembles.

African percussion instruments

African percussion instruments have been an integral part of African music for centuries. These instruments are used in various traditional and modern music genres, creating a rich and diverse sound that reflects the African cultural heritage. Some of the most popular African percussion instruments include:

1. Drums: Drums are one of the most widely used percussion instruments in Africa. They are used in various cultural and religious ceremonies, as well as in music performances. Drums come in different shapes, sizes, and materials, and each has its unique sound and purpose. For example, the djembé drum is a tall, goblet-shaped drum that produces a deep, resonant sound and is commonly used in West African music.
2. Rattles: Rattles are simple percussion instruments that are made by shaking or hitting a container filled with small objects, such as seeds, stones, or beads. They are used in various African music genres, including traditional healing ceremonies, where they are believed to have spiritual powers.
3. Shakers: Shakers are small, dry percussion instruments that are commonly used in African music. They are usually made from seedpods, gourds, or other materials and are shaken or hit against each other to produce a rhythmic sound. Shakers are often used in ensemble music, providing a high-pitched, staccato sound that adds texture and depth to the overall sound.
4. Congas: Congas are tall, narrow drums that are used in Afro-Cuban and other Latin American music styles. They are made from wooden barrels that are narrow at the top and wider at the bottom, and they produce a bright, sharp sound. Congas are played with sticks or hands and are often used in ensembles with other percussion instruments.
5. Maracas: Maracas are small, rattle-like percussion instruments that are commonly used in Afro-Cuban and other Latin American music styles. They are made from hollow gourds or plastic containers filled with small objects, such as beads or seeds, and are shaken or hit against each other to produce a rhythmic sound. Maracas are often used in ensembles with other percussion instruments, providing a high-pitched, staccato sound that adds texture and depth to the overall sound.

Stringed instruments from Africa

There are a variety of stringed instruments from Africa that are popular among musicians and music lovers alike. Some of the most popular stringed instruments from Africa include:

• Kora: The kora is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in West African music. It has a gourd body and a neck made of wood, and it is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a pick.
• Bouzouki: The bouzouki is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in Greek and other Mediterranean music. It has a round body and a neck made of wood, and it is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a pick.
• Oud: The oud is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in Middle Eastern and North African music. It has a round body and a neck made of wood, and it is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a pick.
• Mandinka: The mandinka is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in West African music. It has a teardrop-shaped body and a neck made of wood, and it is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a pick.
• Sitar: The sitar is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in Indian and other South Asian music. It has a long neck and a body made of wood, and it is played by plucking or strumming the strings with the fingers or a pick.

The importance of African instruments in modern music

The influence of African instruments in modern music cannot be overstated. Many of the most popular musical instruments from Africa have become staples in genres such as jazz, blues, and rock. The use of these instruments has not only enriched the sound of these genres but has also helped to preserve the cultural heritage of Africa.

One of the most significant aspects of African instruments in modern music is their role in the development of jazz. The use of instruments such as the trumpet, saxophone, and drums in jazz can be traced back to African musical traditions. These instruments have been adapted and transformed over time, but their roots can still be heard in the music.

Furthermore, African instruments have also played a significant role in the development of popular music in the United States. The use of instruments such as the banjo, which was brought to the United States by African slaves, has become a staple in genres such as bluegrass and country music. Similarly, the use of the drum in popular music has its roots in African musical traditions.

In addition to their influence on popular music, African instruments have also played a significant role in the development of classical music. Many classical composers have been inspired by African musical traditions, and the use of instruments such as the xylophone and marimba can be heard in classical music compositions.

Overall, the importance of African instruments in modern music cannot be overstated. These instruments have enriched the sound of many genres and have helped to preserve the cultural heritage of Africa. They continue to inspire musicians and composers around the world and will likely remain an important part of the musical landscape for years to come.

Further resources for learning African instruments

For those interested in learning more about African flutes and other traditional musical instruments, there are several resources available. These resources include:

• African Music Ensembles: Many universities and music schools offer African music ensembles where students can learn to play African instruments, including the flute. These ensembles often have a diverse range of instruments and are led by experienced instructors who can provide guidance and support.
• Music Festivals: Music festivals dedicated to African music and culture are a great way to learn about and experience African instruments. These festivals often feature workshops and performances by master musicians, providing an opportunity to learn from the best.
• Online Lessons: There are now many online resources available for learning African instruments, including flute lessons. Websites such as Skype and Zoom have made it possible for instructors to offer lessons remotely, making it easier than ever to learn from experienced teachers.
• Instrument Makers: Many instrument makers specialize in creating African instruments, including flutes. These makers often have a deep understanding of the instruments they create and can provide valuable insights into their history, construction, and playing techniques.
• Music Books and Videos: There are many books and videos available that focus on African music and instruments, including the flute. These resources can provide a comprehensive introduction to the history, culture, and playing techniques associated with African flutes.

FAQs

1. What are the 5 most popular musical instruments from Africa?

Answer:

The five most popular musical instruments from Africa are the drum, xylophone, marimba, lute, and mbira. These instruments have been used for centuries in various African cultures and have played a significant role in African music and dance.

2. What is the origin of African musical instruments?

African musical instruments have been developed over thousands of years by various African cultures. Many of these instruments were created from materials that were readily available in the environment, such as wood, bamboo, and animal skins. The development of African musical instruments was influenced by various factors, including cultural traditions, geography, and available resources.

3. How are African musical instruments made?

The construction of African musical instruments varies depending on the specific instrument and the culture in which it is used. However, many African musical instruments are made from natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and animal skins. These materials are often shaped, carved, and decorated using traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation.

4. How are African musical instruments played?

African musical instruments are played using a variety of techniques, including striking, shaking, blowing, and plucking. The specific technique used to play an instrument often depends on the instrument itself and the style of music being performed. Many African musical instruments are played in ensembles, with different instruments playing different parts to create a rich and complex sound.

5. What is the significance of African musical instruments in African culture?

African musical instruments have played a vital role in African culture for centuries. They are often used in traditional ceremonies, celebrations, and religious rituals, and are considered to be sacred objects. African musical instruments are also an important part of African identity and are often used to preserve and promote African culture and heritage.

26 FAMOUS AFRICAN MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NAMES AND PICTURES