Traditional African Instruments Overview

Timbila of Southern Mozambique

• The Chopi tribe plays various instruments, most notably timbila xylophones.
• Timbila bands are led by a melody-improvising performer, followed by others playing a syncopated rhythm.
• This rhythmic style encourages energetic dancing movements.

Bow Harps of East Africa

• Bow harps are string instruments with a curved wooden bow extending from a hollow resonator.
• Players pluck strings and dampen unused ones with their other hand.
• Originated in ancient Egypt and Sumer, later spreading across Africa.
• Still used by many Ugandan and Sudanese tribal groups.

Ngoma Drums of Buganda

• Bantu peoples use various drums called ngoma.
• Different types found in different regions, especially in Buganda, Uganda.
• Drum beats are unique to each clan, with the king's drums holding special significance.
• Ngoma drums serve as a symbol of power and are essential in Bugandan culture.

Udu Clay Drums of Nigeria

• Igbo people in Nigeria primarily farm yams, making it their main staple food.
• The Igbo celebrate the yam harvest with festivals featuring parades, dances, and music.
• Percussion instruments are important, particularly the udu clay drum.
• Udu drums are typically made by women and played using hand slapping and finger tapping. They also serve as jugs or storage vessels.

Mbira of Zimbabwe

• Shona tribe music commonly includes the mbira, a small thumb piano.
• The mbira is played on a wooden board with staggered metal keys.
• Often accompanied by a musician using a rattle, particularly during religious ceremonies.