Rhythms is now introducing three handsomely crafted MBIRAs. Found throughout black Africa, this most popular of traditional African instruments extends south to South Africa, north to Ethiopia and Niger, east to Mozmbique and west to The Gambia. The earliest written account of the instrument in 1586 claims the Mbira to have been invented and played in West Africa before 1000 B.C.E. Crafted from finely selected hardwood each sound box resonates with a wide range of tones and pitches. The layout of the keys and their tunings allow the instrument to vibrate with the stroke of each key, producing a continuous drone-like buzzing. Simple to play, beautiful in tone , RHYTHMS MBIRAs help illustrates that this ancient instrument and Shona Mbira music in its beauty, subtlety, and virtuosity demands the same kind of respect that we might hold for any other classical instrument or music. Comes in 7", 9" and 10" sizes.

$40.00