Kalimba African Thumb Piano
Sheesham – Mbira – Likembe
5″ x 7″ 17 Steel Keys with two Vibrato Holes
The thumb piano originated in Africa. Also known as the Mbira, Kalimba or Likembe, the instrument consists of a wooden box that acts as the resonating chamber along with tuneable metal keys that are mounted on top.
To play, simply rest the thumb piano on the fingers of both hands and hold it between your palms. Cover the vibrato holes with your fingers. Then pluck the keys with your thumbs. As you play you can uncover and cover the vibrato holes to vary the tone.
Your Kalimba may tuned in any number of keys, scales and modes, according to your personal preference or the music you are playing. Specific tuning of a thumb piano is only an issue when it is being played with other instruments. Otherwise, the tuning is subjective and up to the player.
The longer keys have lower pitches and shorter keys have higher pitches. They can be tuned by tapping them in or out to adjust their length, and therefore their pitch.
