pelattuna

Pelletuna is a style of West African string instruments, specifically a type of balafon or kSoupI instrument. Originating from the Mande region, pelletuna is a small to medium-sized balafon that is typically played in the village or community context. The instrument consists of a wooden resonator connected to a keyboard-like pattern of keys, held in place by wooden bridges and sounded through wooden or metal keys.

The pelletuna's sound is created by striking the keys with mallets or sticks. The instrument's octaves may be arranged in a specific pattern, often with three full octaves and one octave of high notes. The register is sometimes split or shifted, often producing a dramatic or curvaceous note sequence.

Pelletuna is related to or has borrowed from similar instruments like the kSoupI or balafon, although it may be smaller than the other two instruments. The sound and culture associated with the pelletuna originated among on in the traditions of the country of Guinea and Fula people. It is worth noting that, although information about more specific social context or exactly when, why these instruments were created can also allow for a bit of educated speculation as to other influences.

Often, these instruments are handcrafted using locally obtained and naturally triggered wood, imbuing the instrument with local artisan dispositional intentions.