Mbira, Kalimba, Lamellaphone. Whatʻs it all about?

Letʻs learn about a unique group of musical instruments known by many names, and why I donʻt call them “thumb pianos“. Iʻm still a student of this tradition, and though I have been playing mbira for over 20 years, I recognize my privilege as an American of African descent in the agency I have to produce videos like this. Always seek the voices and experiences of those from the culture itself when you can! Photo credits: Chugrad McAndrews Jeremy Allen Algirdas Gelazius. Ishootmagic. Athol Lewis. Dietmar Temps. Video of me playing mbira by Hoku Uchiyama Links: Book and music purchase: Digital music purchase: Hand-made beaded jewelry: Purchase The Mbira, An African Musical Tradition from publisher: Purchase The Haumāna Hula Handbook from publisher: Mahea Uchiyama Center for International Dance: Support Zimbabwean music and musicians: Social Media: