Mbira

Sound and Character

The sound of the mbira is deep, shimmering, with a characteristic dirty, buzzing overtone that, according to African beliefs, attracts spirits. The melody is built on the intertwining of polyrhythmic patterns.

Design and Features

A solid wooden board with forged metal reeds fixed in two rows. Bottle caps or seashells are often attached inside or onto the body to create a noise effect.

Genres Used In

• Ritual music of the Shona people (bira ceremonies)
• Afro-folk and world ethnic music