The mbira, also known as the “thumb piano,” a traditional African musical instrument, is losing its appeal in major urban areas, according to a musician and seller of traditional instruments from Cape Town, South Africa, who spoke to Anadolu.
Isaac Mungai highlighted that traditional music has a stronger presence in rural areas, where people are more connected to their cultural roots. Outside of the cities, the mbira tradition remains vibrant and thriving.
The mbira is commonly played in Southern Africa during events such as religious rituals, weddings, social gatherings, and harvest festivals. It is a prominent traditional instrument in countries like Zimbabwe and Malawi.
Internationally recognized as the kalimba, the mbira is typically made in sizes that fit comfortably in the hand, with metal keys affixed to a wooden base. The number of keys varies from eight to 28, depending on the specific region and type.
The mbira is prevalent in a region stretching from the Zambezi River to the Kalahari Desert, with a history in the area dating back over 1,000 years.
Mungai also noted that young people, particularly males, play the mbira during rites of passage from childhood to adulthood. He emphasized that mbiras are not played for commercial gain, but instead hold a significant place in African cultural heritage.
