The African musical instrument kalimba is performed all around the world. Wooden tines are fastened to a board, which is the only component of the device. The sound is produced when the musician holds the instrument in his or her hands and uses their thumbs to pluck the tines. Both solo and group performances of it are performed. In several African nations, it is known by various names. The primary name for Mbira in Zimbabwe is Kalimba in Kenya.
In 1570, Portuguese explorers mentioned the instrument for the first time in European literature. They arrived in the Americas thanks to that illustrious era in human history, of which we are all rightfully so proud, NO! the trading of slaves.
Some refer to it as the thumb piano of Africa. It is a fascinating piece of equipment that could be categorised as percussion. It is made up of tiny metal tines or keys that are fastened to a sounding board. The notes are shaped with the aid of vibrato holes. It can also go by the name Mbira. These keys can total 10, 17, or more for them. It has been used for generations in African nations to pray for rain as well as to fend off evil spirits from ailing people. It is a musical instrument with significant symbolic value on the continent of Africa. This is the best kalimba buying guide.
Table of Contents
Rain Whisperer Kalimba LingTing Kalimba 21 keys
- ★The LingTing Advantge: LingTing is a professional manufacturer of thumb...
- ★High-quality materials: hand-made with high-quality Black walnut wood...
- ★Product features: Each piece of thumb piano has its unique wood texture,...
A great kalimba for beginners for anyone searching for a Kalimba with a larger number of keys. The LingTing LT-K21W, commonly known as the “Rain Whisperer” Kalimba, is an excellent choice for both beginners and pros. The sound produced by this thumb piano, which is made of high-quality black walnut wood, is angelic and pure. Because this is a pure wood kalimba, it has a lower resonance than hollow body kalimbas.
The key of F is tuned on this best sounding kalimba, which has 21 keys. With 21 keys to work with, you’ll have more flexibility to experiment musically while also expanding your repertoire of tunes to perform. You may always adjust the keys with the accompanying tuning hammer to meet your musical demands, just like any other kalimba.
It’s also worth remembering that the keys/tines will be closer together. This is ideal for anyone who wants to play songs that require numerous keys to be strummed at the same time. Because chords aren’t inscribed on the keys, you’ll have to rely on the syllable stickers to figure out what chord each key is with music knowledge.
Rain Whisperer is best beginner kalimba in 2023. LingTing goes to great lengths to ensure that their Kalimbas are of the highest quality, both in terms of construction and sound/tone.
GECKO Kalimba 17 Keys Thumb Piano with Waterproof Protective Box
- High-quality Materials: Handmade with high-quality mahogany and ore steel...
- Wonderful Sound: Without any music basis, you just move your thumb to get...
- Study Guidance: With our professionally produced kalimba learning booklet,...
A great option for anyone searching for a honhand kalimba with a larger number of keys. The LingTing LT-K21W, commonly known as the “Rain Whisperer” Kalimba, is an excellent choice for both beginners and pros. The sound produced by this thumb piano, which is made of high-quality black walnut wood, is angelic and pure. Because this is a pure wood kalimba, it has a lower resonance than hollow body kalimbas.
The key of F is tuned on this kalimba, which has 21 keys. With 21 keys to work with, you’ll have more flexibility to experiment musically while also expanding your repertoire of tunes to perform. You may always adjust the keys with the accompanying tuning hammer to meet your musical demands, just like any other kalimba.
It’s also worth remembering that the keys/tines will be closer together. This is ideal for anyone who wants to play songs that require numerous keys to be strummed at the same time. Because chords aren’t inscribed on the keys, you’ll have to rely on the syllable stickers to figure out what chord each key is.
In general, the LingTing “Rain Whisperer” kalimba is our favorite kalimba on the market. LingTing goes to great lengths to ensure that their Kalimbas are of the highest quality, both in terms of construction and sound/tone. This is the best mini thumb piano in 2023.
MOOZICA 17 Keys Kalimba Thumb Piano
- ♫【Beautiful Sound, Relaxing Melody】Selected acacia koa wood and ore...
- ♫【High-gloss Piano Lacquer Finishing】High-gloss piano lacquer...
- ♫ 【100% Solid Koa Wood Structure】Hollow out a whole block of koa wood...
Moozica Kalimba is the best wood for kalimba. The 17-key Kalimba from Moozica is available in four distinct color/wood combinations, providing players a budget option. Two Koa Kalimbas are available, one constructed of Acacia Koa wood and the other from a combination of chosen Koa and Spruce wood. The other two alternatives are constructed of Mahogany, one of which has a distinct deep blue hue.
The main difference between the two wood selections is that Koa provides a warmer and deeper tone, whereas Mahogony gives a brighter and cleaner sound. The tone quality was consistently good on every note, from high to low, according to many owners. This kalimba is tuned in the key of C, however the tuning can be changed to suit your needs. The chord names and numbers are inscribed on each key, making these kalimbas ideal for beginners.
Overall, these Moozica kalimbas are fantastic, with a strong build that creates a lovely high-quality tone from vibrato holes that is suitable for players of all levels. While these thumb pianos appear to be intended toward novices, advanced kalimba players will love the quality and tone they produce.
EASTROCK Kalimba 17 Keys Thumb Piano
- ♫【Top Raw Material】17 keys Kalimba thumb piano is handcrafted with...
- ♫【Nice Sound】The thumb piano with Natural air-dried mahogany veneer...
- ♫【Easy to Play】With our professionally produced kalimba learning...
Check out this 17-key thumb piano from EASTROCK if you’re seeking for the best kalimba that’s both affordable and high-quality. This 17-key kalimba is handcrafted of mahogany wood, which has a finer texture, better sustain, and a gentler delicate tone, making it a perfect choice for beginner players. The finish on this thumb piano is so lovely that you’d never guess it was the most affordable option on our list. EASTROCK etched the chord names on each key of their kalimba, recognizing that many individuals purchasing in this price bracket are most likely beginners or first-time customers.
Because of its naturally air-dried mahogany veneer, the tone of this thumb piano is sharp and pleasant. The resonance on this kalimba is louder and richer because to the solid wood and box shape, giving a “melodious and lingering” impression while you play. This instrument is less heavy than other possibilities while maintaining its durability. This kalimba’s hand-polished and curved edges make it feel smoother and more comfortable in your hands.
It comes pre-tuned in the key of C and includes a tuning hammer for further tuning. Overall, this is the best option for learning to play the kalimba while saving money. This is the best kalimba for beginners in 2023.
UNOKKI Kalimba Thumb Piano
- The UNOKKI Finger Piano Kalimba, part of the idiophone family, is a 17 note...
- The handmade high-quality mahogany kalimba with seventeen keys made from...
- The mbira kalimba is a perfect instrument for all skill levels to be used...
The UNOKKI Kalimba is made of solid Okoume and can range in hue from a rich chocolate brown to a lighter reddish color, depending on the wood’s peculiarities. The best kalimbas give individuality and distinctiveness because each instrument has a tiny difference in texture and color. The keys on the UNOKKI Kalimba are made of tin metal, and each one is inscribed with notes. Playing a kalimba with embossed or engraved keys, which are ideal for novices, might be easier and more convenient than relying simply on stickers to identify each note.
If you’re new to the kalimba, you might not be aware of how the instrument is made. The UNOKKI Kalimba’s keys are slightly curved down to provide added protection for your thumbs and fingers while playing. This provides total relaxation, regardless matter how long you spend making music! Before being dispatched, every UNOKKI Kalimba is tweaked and tested so you may start playing straight away. The instrument does, however, come with a tuning hammer and tuning instructions, so you should be able to re-tune your kalimba as needed.
A useful silicone finger shield is also included. Although they are commonly accessible, not all kalimbas come with them, thus buying the UNOKKI Kalimba gives you a major advantage. Wearing a finger protection will assist to decrease discomfort and ensure that you can play without injuring your fingers, whether you’re a novice who is still getting acclimated to the keys or a more experienced musician who is using the kalimba for hours at a time.
In addition, the UNOKKI Kalimba comes with a cleaning cloth, instructions, red and green stickers, and a cloth bag to keep your kalimba in tip-top shape. Despite including a much-appreciated finger guard, UNOKKI does not supply a waterproof case with the kalimba. Given that water, moisture, and humidity can damage the instrument, a hard, waterproof case may be required if you wish to extend the life of your instrument. The UNOKKI Kalimba may be the best kalimba on the market, offering exceptional craftsmanship at a startlingly low price. This is the best kalimba in 2023.
Newlam Kalimba Thumb Piano 17 Keys
- Rigorous Raw Materials Selection: The Newlam 17 Keys Kalimba thumb piano is...
- Embossed Notes & Hand-rest Curve Design: The keys are embossed with letters...
- Easy To Play: 5 minutes to learn a song. After you place your order, you...
This best kalimba brands is also handcrafted, using only the highest quality materials. The instruments’ bars are composed of steel, and the wood used in their construction is also air-dried. A person may learn a song on the instrument in about five minutes because it is such a simple and easy to play instrument.
In addition to being simple, the learn how to play instrument includes instructions and recommendations on how to play a song on the Kalimba Thumb piano in under five minutes. The purchase includes a slew of bonus items that will aid in the learning of the Kalimba Thumb Piano.
Stickers, a flannelette bag, and cleaning fabric are included with the Newlam Kalimba. To obtain an additional electronic songbook, tuning hammer, and instruction book, contact the seller. This kalimba is also a secure purchase because it comes with a 60-day warranty and a 60-day easy return policy. This is the best electric kalimba in 2023.
Lark Music 17 Key Mahogany Kalimba African Thumb Piano Finger
- High-quality Materials: Naturally dried mahogany and ore metal composed of...
- Carefully Designed & Wonderful Sound: Without any music basis, you just...
- Easy to Play - you can play with the steel sheet, the sound is clear and...
The Kalimba by Lark Music is made of naturally dried mahogany and ore metal. The metal keys are fixed so neatly on the wooden box that it provides the user with a completely different musical experience. It has been meticulously crafted for excellent sound quality, and even if you have no prior musical training, you can enjoy playing the Kalimba by simply moving your thumb around the keys.
You will be able to play the tunes once you have mastered the beat. Meilleurs kalimbas comes with a one-year warranty and a 60-day return policy. If you don’t like the instrument after purchasing it, you have 60 days to return it without incurring any further fees or conditions. You’ll love playing this Kalimba at family gatherings, friend get-togethers, and even when you’re alone.
Kalimba playing is an art, and learning it requires the purchase of a nice instrument. The Lark Music 17-key wood kalimba will not let you down, and you will have a great time playing it.
Apelila 17 Key Kalimba Thumb Piano
- Solid Mahogany Wood - Made of high grade single board mahogany, mahogany is...
- International standard C tune - 1(D), 2(B), 3(G), 4(E), 5(C5), 6(A), 7(F),...
- The note on the keyboard is carved on the keys, so it is not easy to...
Despite being built of solid mahogany wood, the Apelila Kalimba comes in a variety of colors and styles. This Apelila model combines the deep sounds produced by the solid mahogany construction with appealing colors and designs, thanks to excellent etchings and decorations. The Apelila Kalimba, which claims to be “as smooth as spring water,” certainly comes up to the hype. Its rich, deep tone will enthrall even the most seasoned musicians as well as complete beginners.
The Apelila Kalimba will survive the test of time thanks to its carbon steel keys. It’s ideal for novices who might need a little more help getting started, as it’s engraved with letters. Similarly, even if you’re a complete beginner, you’ll be able to take the Apelila Kalimba out of the box and start playing music right away thanks to the included user manual.
Apelila includes a tuning hammer, stickers, a velvet bag, and two finger picks in addition to the kalimba and user manual. Again, this model does not have a waterproof case, so you may wish to purchase one separately. Because any instrument made of wood can be destroyed by the environment, a more durable case may be required.
The Apelila Kalimba, on the other hand, is one of the most affordable kalimbas on the market, and it plays far better than you’d anticipate. Despite the low price, you can’t help but be astonished by the quality and craftsmanship on display. The Apelila Kalimba is an excellent alternative for beginners as well as more experienced players who wish to purchase a quality instrument without breaking the bank.
JDR Kalimba Thumb Piano 17 Keys
- High-quality raw materials ♪Kalimba is made of solid mahogany and adamant...
- Intimate design ♪The kalimba keys are engraved with letters and notes,...
- Easy To Play ♪Even without music foundation or operational experience,...
This Kalimba, made brilliantly by JDR, has a really striking appearance. Solid Mahogany, which is renowned for its sonic properties, was used to construct the soundbox. Each instrument’s use of pure wood has a wonderful design element. This is what distinguishes each Kalimba, displaying the colors and patterns of the wood. Of course, the combination of the wood and steel times produces a fantastic sound. The 17 staggered keys give a beautiful, clear tone that is perfect for performing on an acoustic instrument.
Manganese steel, which is a durable but malleable metal, is used to make the keys. So, the keys won’t be too demanding on the fingertips. Some Kalimbas come with letters and stick-on notes. They won’t fade away with this instrument because they are etched on each tine.
It includes a waterproof case with it. This is crucial since the Kalimba is a delicate and sensitive instrument. It must be shielded from the elements and any unintentional bumps. A cleaning cloth, a tuning hammer, and the aforementioned music book are also included in the bundle. a beautiful design and construction that produces a very real sound. It is very reasonably priced and well-made. That has to be among the best 17-key kalimbas available.
Buying Guide for Kalimba for Beginners
Embarking on your musical journey with a kalimba is an exciting adventure. To ensure you get off to a great start, this buying guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when purchasing your first kalimba.
Number of Tines
Kalimbas typically come with 10, 17, or more tines. For beginners, a 17-tine kalimba is often recommended as it covers most music scales and is suitable for a wide variety of music. However, a 10-tine kalimba can be a good option for younger players or those who prefer a simpler layout.
Material Quality
The quality of the materials used in a kalimba affects both its sound and durability. The body is usually made of wood, such as mahogany or acacia, which produces a warm, resonant tone. The tines are typically made of steel. Look for a kalimba with a solid, well-crafted wooden body and smooth, well-aligned tines.
Sound and Tuning
Most kalimbas are pre-tuned to the key of C, which is suitable for most beginners. However, some models can be retuned to other keys using a tuning hammer. It’s also important to listen to the sound of the kalimba if possible, as different models can have slightly different tones.
Additional Resources
Many beginner kalimbas come with useful extras like a carrying case, a tuning hammer, and instructional materials. Some even include note stickers that can be applied to the tines to help you learn the instrument faster. These resources can be very helpful when you’re starting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Kalimba?
The Kalimba, also known as the African Thumb Piano or Mbira, is a basic percussion instrument that uses metal tines fastened to a sounding board to produce a relaxing rhythmic sound.
Kalimbas are usually handcrafted and feature ranging from five to twenty-one keys to play with. With so many options available currently, it’s difficult to say which one is the best Kalimba on the market. There are a few things to think about before purchasing one.
What is the Best Kalimba to buy? which Kalimba to buy? Are kalimba worth it?
This is a little more than an instrument to us. It symbolizes thousands of years of history and culture from the ‘cradle of civilization, as it is termed. As a result, you’ll want something that both sounds and looks the part.
How Many Keys are on the Kalimba?
Choosing how many keys you want on your kalimba is probably the best place to start. Many Kalimbas on the market have 17 keys and are tuned to a specific tone or key (Standard tuning in the Key of C). The most important thing to remember is that the more keys/tines you have on your kalimba, the more chords you have to deal with.
Having more chords to deal with expands your repertoire of songs to play and gives you more opportunity to experiment musically on your thumb piano. Of course, the larger your kalimba is, the more keys it contains. If size and portability are critical considerations for your kalimba purchase, we suggest looking at models with fewer keys.
Solid Wood Kalimba or Hollow Body Kalimba?
You’ll notice that the keys of pure wood kalimbas are closer together, and the sound isn’t as full. These types of kalimba are ideal for guitarists who want to “strum” numerous keys at the same time while playing chords.
As I previously stated, hollow body kalimbas often contain a soundhole that increases the volume of your instrument. When opposed to its pure wood equivalents, keys/tines are typically more widely spaced. These are ideal for musicians who intend to perform songs that require a lot of individual selecting. You have more room to be more exact while playing with keys that are spaced out, resulting in fewer mistakes.
Can I learn kalimba by myself?
Absolutely! The kalimba is one of the easiest instruments to learn, and many people teach themselves using books, online tutorials, and other resources.
How often do I need to tune my kalimba?
The frequency of tuning can depend on how often you play and the specific conditions in your area. However, generally, you should check the tuning of your kalimba every few weeks.
Can I replace the tines on my kalimba?
Yes, tines can be replaced if they become damaged. Replacement tines can often be purchased from the manufacturer or a music store.
What materials are kalimbas made from?
Most kalimbas have a wooden body, often made of mahogany or acacia, and tines made of steel or other metals.
Do I need any accessories to start playing the kalimba?
No, you don’t need any special accessories to start playing the kalimba. Some kalimbas come with extras like a carrying case or tuning hammer, but these aren’t necessary to begin learning the instrument.