African Musical Instruments

Africa has a vibrant music scene in both traditional folk music and modern, popular music. There is no such thing that can be described as African music in general. Different musical forms have developed in the regions but there are some similar trends. Drums have and continue to be an important part of African sounds. Europeans have introduced instruments, such as guitars, trumpets and saxophones and pop music in Africa has been influenced by the US and Britain. The variety of African musical instruments has contributed to the rich musical heritage, found in work songs and songs marking religious ceremonies. Music is an important part of life in Africa and is heard at times of birth, marriage and during hunting rituals.

There are many different kinds of drums, which lay down the rhythm for the other African musical instruments. Djembe drums have grown out of the tradition of talking drums, used to communicate messages in remote areas and for religious ceremonies. They include Slit Gongs, which are made from one hollowed log. Many African musical instruments can be considered works of art as well as having their practical function. The basketwork which goes into the making of African rattles is very impressive. These are used in ceremonies and dance.

In West Africa, the Double Bell is used as the rhythm accompaniment to drums. They are hand made from iron cowbells and give two musical tones. The Kora, a harp like instrument made from cowhide, is another African musical instrument popular in West Africa. It has twenty-one strings, which are plucked. The Mbira is an unusual instrument with keys, which are played by the thumbs. It's used in ritual, dance and story telling. African fiddles are used in African music and can be heard in contemporary jazz.

Some instruments bear names, which we are familiar with, outside of Africa, but appear very different from instruments we are used to. The African flute is carved from one piece of wood and is blown across the end of the instrument. The African trumpet is also made from one piece of wood and the player has to be very skillful. There is no valve for changing the pitch; this has to be done by using the lips. African musical instruments contribute greatly to the cultural life there and have also influenced the music of other countries. Africa is the place where music was born, transferring to America through the transportation of slaves. The blues and rock music owe Africa a great debt.