Mbira

The mbira, also known as the kalimba in many regions, is a family of thumb-operated lamellophones from Southern Africa. It is especially associated with the Shona people of Zimbabwe and is used in Zimbabwe and nearby areas. Variants include mbira dzavadzimu (ancestral mbira) and nyunga nyunga, among others.

A mbira consists of a wooden soundboard or resonator with a set of metal tines (lamellae) mounted on top. Players pluck the tines with the thumbs (and sometimes the forefingers), producing interlocking melodies and polyrhythms. Tines vary in length and are tuned to specific scales; many instruments use a resonator such as a gourd or carved box to amplify the sound. Mbira music is commonly performed in ensembles with hosho (rattles) and voice, and it can be played solo or as part of an accompaniment.

In Shona culture, the mbira plays a central role in ceremonies, healing rites, and social gatherings. In bira ceremonies, it is used to invoke ancestral spirits and accompany prayers, songs, and divination. The instrument’s repertoire spans praise tunes, dance pieces, and pieces associated with healing and memory.

Historically older than written records, the mbira’s tradition has continued into modern times. In the 20th century it gained wider recognition beyond Zimbabwe through recordings and performances by Zimbabwean musicians and international collaborations. Today it remains a symbol of Zimbabwean cultural heritage and is taught and performed by communities in Africa and in the diaspora.