uimareille

Uimareille is a traditional musical instrument originating from the island of Réunion, an overseas department of France in the Indian Ocean. It is a type of *guitare* (guitar-like instrument) with a distinctive, resonant sound that plays a central role in the island’s folk music, particularly in the genre known as *maloya*. The name "uimareille" is derived from the Creole word for "guitar," reflecting its close relation to the Spanish and Portuguese guitars brought to the island by enslaved Africans and European settlers during the colonial period.

The uimareille typically features a wooden body, often made from materials like mahogany or rosewood, and a narrow neck with metal strings. It is usually tuned to a major or minor chord, allowing it to accompany the rhythmic patterns of drums and other percussion instruments in maloya performances. Unlike the standard six-string guitar, the uimareille often has fewer strings, sometimes as few as four, which contributes to its warm, mellow tone. Its construction and tuning are adapted to suit the expressive, call-and-response style of Reunionese music, which blends African rhythms with French and Malagasy influences.

Uimareille music is deeply tied to the cultural and historical identity of Réunion, often used in celebrations, ceremonies, and storytelling. The instrument’s role in preserving the island’s oral traditions and communal heritage has earned it recognition as an important part of Reunionese intangible cultural heritage. While modern versions may incorporate slight variations in design, the essence of the uimareille remains rooted in its historical and artistic significance within the island’s musical landscape.