Marian Vasilescu September 11, 2020

High quality Kalimba instruments and learning songs? Also known as a thumb piano, the Kalimba is a delightful instrument that is enjoyed by many players worldwide. It might not be the first instrument someone would decide to take up, but nonetheless, the Kalimba can give a truly rewarding playing experience.

We love the Gecko 17 Key Kalimba for its style and design. It looks quite high end and is really attractive. In fact, everything about the packaging of this Kalimba gives you the feeling of luxury. Now, this is handmade. And Gecko sourced high-quality mahogany to make the body of this instrument. As for the tines, they decided to go for ore steel. In combination, these two materials give the Kalimba an outstanding look. But beyond the looks, the mahogany body and ore steel tines also give this Kalimba its characteristic sound. It’s a clean and very clear sound. In feel also, we are impressed by the Gecko 17 Key Kalimba. It’s superb and you’ll love running your fingers over this instrument. It is moderately priced, although we wouldn’t exactly call it budget. And so, to protect your investment, Gecko gives you an EVA protective box. This screams of quality and will definitely keep your Kalimba safe in case of accidents.

There are other use of kalimba beforehand, like a tool used by ancient tribal leaders in wars to communicate. It was also for ritual events to attract rains during droughts or to stop them in times of flooding. Another thing is for the deceased to help their spirit to rest in peace and drive away evil spirits. And of course, to heal the sick. With the discovery of the Musicologist Hugh Tracey in one of his trips to Africa the Mbira underwent remodeling. Kalimba was made to adapt to Western style but retain its totality. Tracey also took charge of its dissemination in various parts of the world. A few years later, Zimbabwe, during its colonial period, would go through a dark phase. In which the instrument lost popularity due to a campaign promoted by missionaries who preached its supposed evil essence. See extra details on kalimba tabs.

Constructed from solid Acacia Koa wood and Carbon Steel, the Moozica Kalimba is as much a piece of art as it is an instrument. Intricate finishing and pattern-work ensure the Moozica Kalimba looks fantastic, as well as delivering exceptional sound quality. The 17-key kalimba features a built-in pickup, along with a 6.35mm connection interface. With the ability to hook up to an amp or recording equipment, the Moozica Kalimba is perfect for use on stage or in the studio, as well as for playing at home or when you’re out and about.

This next choice is far less expensive and may be a good option for those on a lower budget, the quality is still pretty decent and it is made utilizing the same material choices. It features manganese steel keys, there are 17 western tuned notes from C to E they are embossed with the notes and numbers to help the user learn to play with or without musical knowledge. They have red green stickers to visually aid for as long as is needed as well. The body is mahogany it has very pretty carved details which are more complex and larger than a traditional sound-hole inlay. It also has a nice stained finish which is available in various shades. It doesn’t come with a sturdy case like the first two we have highlighted which probably accounts for its lower price-tag but it does have a few useful accessories including an all-important tuning hammer a soft carry pouch, cleaning cloth and rubber thumb protectors. The manufacturers have also included a guide booklet to help get beginners on their way. See even more information at https://kalimba-tabs.com/.