What are the most commonly used instruments in African music?

Africa is a continent rich in culture and diversity, and its music is no exception. From the drums of the BaKete people in the Congo to the kora of the Mandinka in West Africa, the instruments used in African music are as varied as the cultures they come from. In this article, we will explore the most commonly used instruments in African music, their history, and how they are used in different cultural contexts. Get ready to be transported on a musical journey through the vibrant sounds of Africa!

Types of African Instruments

Drums

Drums are one of the most common and widely used instruments in African music. They are found in almost every culture and region on the continent, and play a vital role in many traditional music styles. There are many different types of drums used in African music, each with its own unique sound and purpose.

Some of the most commonly used drums in African music include:

• Talking drums: These drums are designed to produce a sound that mimics the human voice, and are often used to communicate messages or tell stories.
• Dundun: These drums are typically played in pairs, and are used to provide a steady rhythm for dance music.
• Kpanlogo: This type of drum is often played in a circle, and is used to accompany traditional dance styles such as the kpanlogo dance.
• Shekere: This is a type of drum made from a gourd, and is often played by women. It is used to provide a steady beat and add texture to the music.
• Gangan: This is a type of drum that is played with sticks, and is used to provide a sharp, punctuated sound.

Overall, drums play a crucial role in African music, providing the rhythmic foundation for many traditional styles. They are often played in ensembles, with each drummer adding their own unique sound to the mix.

Percussion

Percussion instruments are the backbone of African music, with drums and other percussive instruments playing a vital role in many traditional African music styles. Some of the most commonly used percussion instruments in African music include:

1. Drums

Drums are perhaps the most iconic instrument in African music, with many different types of drums used for different purposes. The djembé, for example, is a tall, skinny drum that is played with hands or sticks and is a key instrument in many West African music styles. The dundun, on the other hand, is a large, deep-toned drum that is often played in a rhythm with other drums to create a complex, polyrhythmic sound.

2. Xylophones

Xylophones are another important percussion instrument in African music, with many different types of xylophones used in different regions. The marimba, for example, is a xylophone-like instrument that is played with mallets and has a warm, resonant sound. The balafon, on the other hand, is a xylophone-like instrument that is played with the hands and has a bright, staccato sound.

3. Shakers and Maracas

Shakers and maracas are simple percussion instruments that are used in many African music styles. Shakers are small, rattling instruments that are often played in a rhythm with other instruments, while maracas are larger, hollow instruments that are played by shaking them. Both instruments are often used in traditional African music styles, such as Afrobeat and Highlife.

4. Bells

Bells are another common percussion instrument in African music, with many different types of bells used in different regions. The ngoma, for example, is a bell that is played in many East African music styles, while the agogô is a bell that is played in many West African music styles.

Overall, percussion instruments play a crucial role in African music, with drums, xylophones, shakers, maracas, and bells all being commonly used in traditional African music styles.

Stringed Instruments

Characteristics of Stringed Instruments

• Stringed instruments are musical instruments that produce sound from vibrating strings.
• The strings are often plucked, strummed, or bowed to create different tones and rhythms.
• These instruments are found in various forms across Africa, with different shapes, sizes, and playing techniques.

Examples of Stringed Instruments in African Music

• Kora: A West African instrument, the kora is a 21-stringed harp-lute with a gourd resonator. It is traditionally played by the Mandinka people of Senegal, Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Mali. The kora is used in various genres of music, including traditional and modern dance music, religious music, and popular music.
• Guitar: The guitar is a stringed instrument that has been widely adopted in African music. Acoustic and electric guitars are used in various genres, including pop, rock, and folk music. In some African countries, the guitar is used as a lead instrument, while in others, it is used as a rhythm instrument in ensembles.
• Bass guitar: The bass guitar is a stringed instrument that plays a vital role in many African music genres. It provides the low-end frequencies and supports the rhythm section. The bass guitar is used in various genres, including highlife, afrobeat, and soukous.
• Banjo: The banjo is a stringed instrument that originated in Africa and was later adopted in the United States. In African music, the banjo is used in various genres, including traditional and modern dance music, religious music, and popular music.

Cultural Significance of Stringed Instruments in African Music

• Stringed instruments are often associated with cultural and spiritual significance in African music.
• In many African cultures, stringed instruments are used in religious ceremonies and rituals.
• The use of stringed instruments in African music has been influenced by historical and social factors, such as the spread of Islam and Christianity, colonization, and globalization.
• Stringed instruments have played a significant role in the development of African music, and continue to be an important part of contemporary African music.

Wind Instruments

Wind instruments are a crucial component of African music, with a diverse range of instruments being used in various cultures across the continent. These instruments include flutes, trumpets, horns, and other wind-blown devices that produce sound through the vibration of air.

Flutes

Flutes are one of the most commonly used wind instruments in African music. They are typically made from materials such as wood, bamboo, or ivory, and are often decorated with intricate designs. Flutes are played by blowing air into the instrument, producing a melodic sound that is an essential part of many African musical traditions.

Horns

Horns are another type of wind instrument that are commonly used in African music. These instruments are typically made from materials such as ivory, horn, or wood, and are often decorated with intricate designs. Horns are played by buzzing the lips against the mouthpiece, producing a sound that is rich in overtones and is often used to accompany other instruments in African music.

Trumpets

Trumpets are also an important part of African music, with a variety of different types of trumpets being used in different cultures. These instruments are typically made from brass or other metals, and are played by blowing air into the mouthpiece to produce a bright, powerful sound. Trumpets are often used in African music to signal important events or to provide a bold, energetic accompaniment to other instruments.

Other Wind Instruments

In addition to flutes, horns, and trumpets, there are many other wind instruments that are commonly used in African music. These include instruments such as the mbira, a thumb piano that is played with the fingers, and the kora, a stringed instrument that is played with the fingers or a small stick.

Overall, wind instruments play a crucial role in African music, with their unique sounds and rhythms adding depth and complexity to the music. Whether played alone or in combination with other instruments, wind instruments are an essential part of the rich musical traditions of Africa.

Keyboard and Piano

The keyboard and piano are important instruments in African music. These instruments are commonly used in genres such as jazz, gospel, and classical music. They are also used in traditional African music, particularly in church and religious settings.

In African music, the keyboard and piano are often used to provide harmonic and melodic support for the vocals and other instruments. They are also used to create solos and to provide accompaniment.

There are several types of keyboards and pianos that are commonly used in African music. These include the acoustic piano, the electric piano, and the digital piano. Each of these instruments has its own unique sound and is used in different ways in African music.

The acoustic piano is a traditional instrument that has been used in African music for many years. It is an important instrument in genres such as jazz and classical music, and is often used to provide a foundation for the other instruments in a band or ensemble.

The electric piano is a newer instrument that has become popular in African music in recent years. It is an electronic instrument that is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from soft and mellow to loud and intense. It is often used to create solos and to provide a modern twist on traditional African music.

The digital piano is a relatively new instrument that has become popular in African music in recent years. It is an electronic instrument that is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from soft and mellow to loud and intense. It is often used to create solos and to provide a modern twist on traditional African music.

Overall, the keyboard and piano are important instruments in African music, and are used in a wide range of genres and settings. They provide harmonic and melodic support for the vocals and other instruments, and are often used to create solos and to provide accompaniment.

Other Instruments

There are numerous other instruments that are used in African music, including:

• Thumb Piano: Also known as a kalimba or mbira, this instrument is commonly used in East and Southern Africa. It consists of a wooden board with metal tines that are plucked with the thumbs to produce different notes.
• Drum: Drums are perhaps the most widely used instrument in African music, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The talking drum, for example, is used to communicate messages in West Africa, while the shekere, a drum with beads or shells attached to it, is used in Nigeria for dance music.
• Harp: The kora, a stringed instrument played with the fingers, is a popular instrument in West Africa. It has a gourd resonator and 21 strings, and is often accompanied by the balafon, a xylophone-like instrument.
• Lute: The ngoni, a stringed instrument played with a bow, is used in West Africa. It has a wooden body and a metal string, and is often accompanied by the djelimbe, a skin-headed drum.
• Flute: The bass flute, also known as the saraswati flute, is a long, wooden flute that is used in African music. It has a unique sound and is often used in ceremonial music.
• Bell: Bells are used in many African cultures to signal important events, such as births, deaths, and weddings. They are often made from metal or wood and are played in groups to create a range of sounds.
• Trumpet: The sauter, a horn made from a long, curved elephant tusk, is used in West Africa. It is played by blowing air through a small hole in the side of the tusk, and produces a powerful, mournful sound.
• Xylophone: The marimba, a wooden xylophone-like instrument, is used in many African cultures. It is often accompanied by drums and other instruments, and is used in a variety of musical styles.
• Jew’s Harp: The mbira, a metal instrument that is held in the mouth and plucked with the fingers, is used in many African cultures. It produces a distinctive, high-pitched sound and is often used in traditional music.
• Lyre: The enanga, a stringed instrument played with a bow, is used in many African cultures. It has a wooden body and a metal string, and is often accompanied by drums and other instruments.
• Guitar: The guitar, a stringed instrument played with the fingers or a pick, is used in many African cultures. It is often used in modern music styles, such as pop and rock, as well as traditional music.
• Saz: The saz, a stringed instrument played with a bow, is used in many African cultures. It has a wooden body and a metal string, and is often accompanied by drums and other instruments.
• Koto: The koto, a stringed instrument played with the fingers, is used in many African cultures. It has a wooden body and a metal string, and is often accompanied by drums and other instruments.
• Oud: The oud, a stringed instrument played with a bow, is used in many African cultures. It has a wooden body and a metal string, and is often accompanied by drums and other instruments.
• Cymbals: Cymbals are used in many African cultures to produce a range of sounds. They are often made from metal or wood and are played in groups to create a range of sounds.
• Castanets: Castanets are used in many African cultures to produce a

Drums

Djembe

The djembe is a drum that is widely used in African music. It is a membranophone, which means that it is a drum that produces sound by the vibration of a stretched membrane. The djembe is typically made from a hollow log, and the membrane is made from the skin of an animal, such as a goat or a cow.

The djembe has a distinctive shape, with a round body and a narrow neck. It is typically played with the hands, using a technique called “bass and slap,” which involves striking the drum with the palm of the hand to produce a deep, resonant sound. The djembe is often used to provide a rhythmic foundation for African music, and it is also used to punctuate and accentuate specific beats and melodies.

In addition to its use in traditional African music, the djembe has also become popular in other genres, such as jazz and rock. Many famous musicians, such as Talking Heads frontman David Byrne and musician and producer Questlove, have incorporated the djembe into their music. The djembe’s unique sound and versatility have made it a popular choice for musicians of all types, and it remains an important instrument in African music today.

Dunun

The dunun is a type of drum commonly used in African music. It is a membranophone instrument, which means that it produces sound by the vibration of a stretched membrane. The dunun is typically made from a hollow log or a wooden barrel, and the membrane is made from animal skin, usually from a goat or a sheep.

The dunun is a key instrument in many traditional African music genres, such as highlife, afrobeat, and jùjú. It is often played in ensembles, along with other drums and percussion instruments. The dunun is played with the hands, and the player can use different techniques to produce a variety of sounds, including bass, midrange, and treble tones.

One of the unique features of the dunun is its tonal range. It is a bass drum, and its low-pitched sound is essential to the rhythm and groove of African music. The dunun is often played in a cycle with other drums, such as the tama or the sogo, to create a polyrhythm or a cross-rhythm. This is a rhythmic pattern that combines two conflicting rhythms, and it is a hallmark of African music.

The dunun is also an important instrument in many cultural and ritual contexts in Africa. It is often played during ceremonies, festivals, and celebrations, and it has a symbolic significance that goes beyond its musical function. In many African cultures, the dunun is associated with power, strength, and protection, and it is believed to have spiritual and healing properties.

Overall, the dunun is a versatile and essential instrument in African music. Its deep, resonant sound and unique rhythmic patterns have played a crucial role in the development of many musical genres, and it continues to be an important symbol of African culture and identity.

Sangban

The Sangban is a type of drum commonly used in African music, particularly in the West African region. It is a tall, narrow drum with a cylindrical body and a tightly stretched drumhead on one end. The Sangban is usually played with the hands or with a stick, and it produces a deep, resonant sound that is essential to many traditional African rhythms.

One of the key features of the Sangban is its ability to produce a wide range of tones and timbres. This is achieved through a technique known as “pressing,” in which the drummer presses the drumhead with their fingers or a stick to change the pitch of the sound. This allows the Sangban to mimic the sounds of other instruments, such as the voice or the balafon (a xylophone-like instrument).

The Sangban is often used in conjunction with other drums, such as the djembé or the dundun, to create complex polyrhythms and call-and-response patterns. It is also used in many traditional African music genres, such as griot music from Senegal and Guinea, and palm wine music from Nigeria.

Overall, the Sangban is a versatile and essential instrument in African music, with a unique sound and technique that is highly valued by musicians and listeners alike.

Kpanlogo

The Kpanlogo is a type of drum commonly used in African music, particularly in the Ewe tradition of Ghana and Togo. It is a small, hourglass-shaped drum with a membrane made from the skin of a cow or goat. The Kpanlogo is played with the hands, using a technique called “thumb roll,” which involves rolling the thumb over the drumhead to produce a deep, resonant sound.

In addition to its use in traditional Ewe music, the Kpanlogo has also been incorporated into modern genres such as highlife and Afrobeat. Its distinctive sound can be heard in many popular African songs, and it continues to be an important instrument in the contemporary music scene.

Percussion

Shekere

The shekere is a type of percussion instrument that is commonly used in African music. It is made from a gourd or calabash that is covered with beads or small metal disks. The shekere is played by shaking it and hitting it with the hand or a small stick.

The shekere has a distinctive sound that is often used to provide a rhythmic foundation for African music. It is used in a variety of musical genres, including traditional African music, Afrobeat, and highlife.

One of the unique features of the shekere is its ability to produce a range of different sounds. By changing the way it is played, the shekere can produce a variety of tones and rhythms. This makes it a versatile instrument that can be used in a wide range of musical contexts.

In addition to its use in music, the shekere also has cultural significance in many African societies. It is often used in rituals and ceremonies, and it is believed to have healing properties.

Overall, the shekere is an important instrument in African music, and it is widely used in a variety of musical genres. Its distinctive sound and versatility make it an essential part of many African musical traditions.

Ghanaian drums

Ghanaian drums are one of the most important and widely used percussion instruments in African music. They have been an integral part of Ghanaian culture for centuries and are used in various traditional and contemporary music genres. There are several types of Ghanaian drums, each with its unique sound and purpose.

Types of Ghanaian drums

The most common types of Ghanaian drums include:

• Frafra: This is a large drum that is played with two sticks. It has a deep, bass sound and is often used to provide a rhythmic foundation for dance music.
• Kpanlogo: This is a small drum that is played with one stick. It has a high-pitched sound and is often used to provide a faster rhythm for dance music.
• Gome: This is a small drum that is played with the hands. It has a mellow sound and is often used to provide a steady beat for songs.
• Atsimevu: This is a small drum that is played with the hands. It has a high-pitched sound and is often used to provide a faster rhythm for dance music.

Cultural significance

Ghanaian drums have a deep cultural significance in Ghanaian society. They are often used in traditional ceremonies, such as weddings and funerals, and are also used in religious rituals. The sound of the drums is believed to have healing properties and is often used to ward off evil spirits.

In addition to their cultural significance, Ghanaian drums are also an important part of Ghana’s music industry. They are used in many popular music genres, such as highlife and Afrobeats, and are an essential element of Ghana’s music scene.

Overall, Ghanaian drums are a vital part of African music and have played an important role in Ghanaian culture for centuries. Their unique sound and cultural significance make them an essential instrument in the world of African music.

Bells

Bells are one of the most common percussion instruments used in African music. They are often made from metal, such as brass or bronze, and can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The sound of bells is created by striking them with a mallet or hammer, which produces a clear and resonant tone.

Bells are used in many different African musical traditions, from the complex polyrhythms of the Congo to the more subtle, rhythmic patterns of the Mandinka music of West Africa. They are often used to provide a rhythmic foundation for the rest of the ensemble, but they can also be used to add color and texture to the music.

One of the unique characteristics of African bells is their ability to produce a range of tones and overtones. This is achieved by varying the size and shape of the bell, as well as the way it is struck. For example, a larger bell will produce a lower tone, while a smaller bell will produce a higher tone. By striking the bell at different points, musicians can also create a range of overtones, which can add depth and complexity to the music.

In addition to their use in traditional African music, bells have also played an important role in the development of Western classical music. Many classical composers, such as Bach and Beethoven, used bells in their music to create a sense of grandeur and celebration. Today, bells continue to be an important instrument in many different musical genres, from jazz and rock to classical and world music.

Stringed Instruments

Kora

The kora is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in African music. It is a traditional instrument that has been used for centuries in West Africa, particularly in countries such as Senegal, Gambia, and Mali. The kora is a wooden instrument that has a unique shape and a distinctive sound.

The kora is typically made from a large calabash gourd that has been dried and hollowed out. The gourd is then covered with a membrane made from the skin of a goat or cow. The strings of the kora are made from thin strips of metal, usually brass or bronze, which are stretched across the gourd and attached to a small wooden bridge. The player uses their thumbs to pluck the strings, creating a melodic sound.

The kora has a rich history in African music and culture. It is believed to have been invented by a West African griot named Jali Ngone Kunda in the 13th century. The griots were a caste of traveling musicians who were responsible for preserving the history and traditions of their communities through music and storytelling. The kora became an important instrument for the griots, and it was passed down from generation to generation.

Today, the kora is still an important instrument in African music. It is used in a variety of musical genres, including traditional West African music, as well as modern styles such as mbalax and hip-hop. The kora has also gained popularity outside of Africa, and it is now played by musicians around the world.

Xalam

The xalam, also known as the talking drum, is a popular stringed instrument used in African music. It is made from a single piece of wood that is hollowed out and covered with a tightly stretched animal skin, typically from a goat or sheep. The xalam has a distinctive sound that is created by using a small stick to strike the skin and produce different tones and rhythms.

The xalam is an important instrument in many traditional African music styles, including griot music from West Africa and the Kpanlogo music from the Ga people of Ghana. It is also used in contemporary African music and has been featured in many popular African music recordings.

One of the unique features of the xalam is its ability to mimic human speech and produce a wide range of sounds, including mimicry of animal noises and even the sound of laughter. This has made it a popular instrument for storytelling and educational purposes in many African cultures.

The xalam is played by holding it on the lap and using a small stick to strike the skin with different levels of intensity and speed to produce different tones and rhythms. The instrument is also often used in call-and-response patterns with other musicians, creating a dynamic and lively musical experience.

Overall, the xalam is a versatile and important instrument in African music, with a distinctive sound that has become synonymous with traditional and contemporary African music styles.

Njara

The Njara is a traditional stringed instrument commonly used in African music. It is a type of lute, which is a plucked string instrument with a neck, a body, and a soundboard. The Njara has a pear-shaped body, a fretless neck, and three or four strings. It is usually played with a pick or the fingers, and the player can vary the pitch by pressing the strings against the frets on the neck.

The Njara is an important instrument in many African cultures, and it is often used in traditional music and dance performances. It is also used in religious ceremonies and as a means of storytelling. The Njara has a distinctive sound that is both mournful and uplifting, and it is capable of expressing a wide range of emotions.

One of the unique features of the Njara is its tuning. It is typically tuned to a pentatonic scale, which is a five-note scale that is commonly used in African music. This tuning allows the Njara to produce a rich and complex sound that is well-suited to the rhythms and melodies of African music.

Overall, the Njara is a versatile and important instrument in African music, and it continues to be played and enjoyed by people across the continent.

Riti

The Riti is a traditional stringed instrument commonly used in African music. It is a bowl-shaped instrument, typically made from a hollowed-out tree trunk, with a thin wooden surface stretched across the opening. The surface is often covered with animal skin or synthetic material to create a resonant sound.

The Riti is played by using a bow to create a vibrating sound across the surface of the instrument. The player can change the pitch by pressing the bow down on the surface or by sliding the bow up and down the length of the instrument.

The Riti is an important instrument in many African cultures and is often used in traditional music and dance performances. It is also used in contemporary African music, such as Afrobeat and highlife, and has been featured in the music of many famous African musicians, including Fela Kuti and Hugh Masekela.

Overall, the Riti is a versatile instrument that can create a wide range of sounds and is an essential part of African music culture.

Wind Instruments

Flute

The flute is one of the most commonly used wind instruments in African music. It is a woodwind instrument that produces sound when air is blown across a hole, causing a column of air to vibrate. In African music, the flute is often made from materials such as bamboo, wood, or metal, and it is typically played by blowing air into it using a mouthpiece.

One of the most notable features of the flute in African music is its ability to produce a wide range of tones and notes. This versatility makes it a popular choice for many different types of music, from traditional folk songs to modern pop and rock music. Additionally, the flute is often used in conjunction with other instruments, such as drums and percussion, to create a rich and dynamic sound.

The flute has a long history in African music, with evidence of its use dating back thousands of years. In many cultures, the flute is considered a sacred instrument, and it is often used in religious and ceremonial music. It is also often featured in traditional folk music, where it is used to tell stories and convey emotions.

Overall, the flute is a vital instrument in African music, and it continues to be an important part of many different types of music throughout the continent. Its versatility, rich sound, and cultural significance make it a beloved instrument among musicians and listeners alike.

Oboe

The oboe is a woodwind instrument that is commonly used in African music. It is a cylindrical instrument with a reed at the top and a conical bore. The oboe is typically made of wood, but can also be made of plastic or other materials.

In African music, the oboe is often used to create melodic lines and harmonies. It is commonly used in traditional African music, as well as in modern genres such as Afrobeat and highlife.

One of the unique features of the oboe in African music is its ability to produce a wide range of sounds, from soft and mellow to loud and sharp. This versatility makes it a popular choice for many African musicians.

In addition to its use in traditional and modern music, the oboe is also used in classical music. It is a staple of classical orchestral music, and is often featured in symphonies and other classical compositions.

Overall, the oboe is a versatile and important instrument in African music, with a rich history and a wide range of uses.

Horn

In African music, the horn is a commonly used wind instrument that has been a part of many cultures for centuries. It is often made from a length of tubing, usually brass or bronze, which is curved into a shape similar to a horn. The horn is played by buzzing the lips into the mouthpiece, creating a vibration that produces a sound.

The horn is a versatile instrument that can be used in a variety of musical styles, from traditional African music to modern jazz and pop. It is often used to create melodic lines and can also be used to create rhythmic patterns and grooves.

One of the most famous types of horn in African music is the trumpet-like instrument known as the kudu horn. This instrument is made from the horn of a kudu, a large antelope found in Africa, and is played by blowing air into the mouthpiece to produce a sound. The kudu horn has a distinctive, mellow sound that is often used in traditional African music to create a haunting, otherworldly atmosphere.

Another type of horn commonly used in African music is the trombone. This instrument is similar to the trumpet but has a longer, more conical shape and is played by using a slide to change the length of the tubing. The trombone is often used in African music to create powerful, low-pitched sounds that add depth and richness to the music.

Overall, the horn is an important instrument in African music, with a rich history and a wide range of uses. Whether played in a traditional African ensemble or in a modern musical context, the horn continues to be an essential part of the musical landscape of Africa.

Keyboard and Piano

Piano

The piano is one of the most versatile and widely used instruments in African music. It is an essential instrument in many genres, including gospel, jazz, and classical music. In African music, the piano is often used to provide a harmonic foundation and to accompany other instruments or vocals.

The piano has a rich history in Africa, with many notable pianists and composers emerging from the continent. Piano music has been an important part of African culture for centuries, with many traditional songs and stories being passed down through generations.

One of the unique aspects of piano playing in African music is the use of pentatonic scales, which are made up of five notes and are commonly used in many traditional African melodies. Pianists often incorporate these scales into their playing, giving the music a distinctively African sound.

In addition to its use in traditional music, the piano is also popular in contemporary African music. Many modern African musicians incorporate elements of Western classical music into their compositions, and the piano is often used as a key instrument in these works.

Overall, the piano is an essential instrument in African music, with a rich history and a unique sound that is integral to many genres. Its versatility and adaptability make it a beloved instrument among musicians and audiences alike.

Keyboard

In African music, the keyboard is a popular instrument that is used in various genres. The keyboard has a significant role in modern African music and is used to create different sounds and textures. It is an essential instrument in the production of electronic and urban music.

There are different types of keyboards that are used in African music, including the digital piano, synthesizer, and the keyboard workstation. The digital piano is a popular choice among musicians because it is relatively affordable and easy to use. It is also a versatile instrument that can produce a wide range of sounds, from piano to organ and brass.

The synthesizer is another popular keyboard instrument in African music. It is used to create electronic sounds and effects, and it is a key instrument in the production of electronic and dance music. The synthesizer allows musicians to create new sounds and textures, and it is a crucial instrument in the development of new music styles.

The keyboard workstation is a versatile instrument that combines the functions of a synthesizer, drum machine, and sequencer. It is a popular choice among musicians because it is a one-stop solution for creating and producing music. The keyboard workstation allows musicians to create complex arrangements and record their performances, making it a valuable tool for music production.

Overall, the keyboard is a vital instrument in African music, and it plays a significant role in the production of modern music styles. Its versatility and flexibility make it an essential tool for musicians, and it is likely to continue to be a popular instrument in African music for years to come.

Other Instruments

Mbira

The mbira is a traditional instrument commonly used in African music. It is also known as the thumb piano or the African piano. The mbira is made from a wooden soundboard with metal keys or tuned reeds attached to it. The keys or reeds are plucked with the thumbs and fingers of both hands to produce a melodic sound.

The mbira has a rich history in African music and is an important cultural symbol in many African countries. It is used in a variety of musical genres, including traditional folk music, religious music, and modern popular music.

One of the unique features of the mbira is its pentatonic scale, which consists of five notes that are played in a specific order. This scale is used in many traditional African melodies and gives the mbira its distinctive sound.

The mbira is often accompanied by other instruments such as drums, bass guitars, and horns, but it can also be played solo. It is versatile and can be used to create a wide range of musical styles, from soft and gentle melodies to loud and energetic rhythms.

Overall, the mbira is a valuable and integral part of African music, and its distinctive sound has been enjoyed by audiences around the world for many years.

Harmonium

The harmonium is a type of reed organ that is commonly used in African music. It is a relatively small instrument, but it can produce a rich and full sound when played properly. The harmonium is often used in traditional African music to provide a harmonic background for other instruments or for singing.

One of the main advantages of the harmonium is that it is relatively easy to play. It requires the player to press keys with their fingers, which activates a set of reeds that produce the desired sound. This makes it accessible to people of all ages and skill levels.

The harmonium is also a versatile instrument. It can be used in a variety of different musical contexts, from traditional African music to more modern styles. Its flexibility makes it a popular choice for many musicians in Africa.

However, the harmonium is not without its drawbacks. It can be quite loud, which can make it difficult to use in certain settings. Additionally, it requires regular maintenance to keep it in good working order. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, the harmonium remains a popular and important instrument in African music.

Accordion

The accordion is a popular instrument in many African countries, particularly in the west and central regions. It is commonly used in traditional music, as well as in modern genres such as highlife and palm wine music. The accordion was introduced to Africa in the late 19th century by European colonizers, but it quickly became an integral part of African music.

One of the reasons for the accordion’s popularity in Africa is its versatility. It can produce a wide range of sounds, from soft and mellow to loud and lively, making it ideal for various musical styles. Additionally, the accordion is relatively easy to learn and play, which has contributed to its widespread use in African music.

The accordion has also played a significant role in the development of African music. For example, in Ghana, the highlife genre, which emerged in the 1920s, featured the accordion as a key instrument. Highlife music incorporated elements of jazz and blues, and it quickly became popular throughout West Africa. Similarly, in Nigeria, the palm wine music tradition, which dates back to the 16th century, has always featured the accordion prominently.

Today, the accordion remains an essential instrument in African music. It is used in a variety of genres, from traditional folk music to modern pop and hip-hop. Many musicians in Africa continue to use the accordion as a primary instrument, and it remains an important part of the continent’s musical heritage.

FAQs

1. What are some of the most commonly used instruments in African music?

Answer:

Some of the most commonly used instruments in African music include drums, xylophones, horns, stringed instruments such as the kora and the ngoni, and flutes. The specific instruments used can vary widely across different regions and cultures within Africa.

2. What is the significance of drums in African music?

Drums are a central part of many African cultures and are often used in religious and ceremonial music. They are also used to communicate important messages, such as announcing important events or calling people to gather. Drums are often played in groups, with different drums used to create different rhythms and sounds.

3. What is the kora and how is it played?

The kora is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in West African music. It is traditionally made from a gourd covered in cow skin and has 21 strings. The kora is played by plucking the strings with the fingers or using a small pick. The sound of the kora is often described as haunting and melodic.

4. What is the ngoni and how is it played?

The ngoni is a stringed instrument that is commonly used in West African music. It is similar to the kora, but has a different shape and is usually made from a wooden body. The ngoni has a smaller range of notes than the kora and is played by plucking the strings with the fingers or using a small pick.

5. What is the flute and how is it used in African music?

The flute is a woodwind instrument that is used in many different cultures around the world, including in Africa. In African music, flutes are often made from materials such as bamboo or wood and are played in a variety of styles. Flutes are often used to create high, melodic sounds and are often featured in traditional music from East and Southern Africa.

26 FAMOUS AFRICAN MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NAMES AND PICTURES