Cool stuff blog #2
#1 An interest I have found with African music has been the Kora. This instrument has such a creative look and idea about it. I wanted to see
more in depth of how these were made. After watching this video (inserted below) I found that it is a very detailed process there is no audible description in this video, but by watching I see they start from scratch with what looks like a bottom part of a tree. The stringing process seems to mainly be hand work. The whole process is hands on and detailed work. Many people were involved with this process.
#2 Going into the area of Zimbabwe, my favorite instrument is the Mbira ( thumb piano. ) I love the peaceful and relaxing sound this instrument gives off! I really wanted to find out the purpose of these instruments. After reading this article here https://australian.museum/learn/cultures/international-collection/african/mbira-thumb-piano-of-africa/ I found that they are ceremonial use. They are used at Weddings, funerals, and spiritual purposes. They would use it as well to call on spirits and seek their advice.
#3 What’s going on in Madagascar? Lots and lots of aerophones, that’s for sure! I found a lot of interest in the Valiha. The best way I can describe this instrument is that it’s a long wood like structure with strings going all around it. The sound of this instrument resembles the sound of a banjo but a different timbre. I found this YouTube video (linked below) very educational on the traditional instruments in Madagascar
Hi Kayln! I loved your entry on the Kora as well as the video on how to make a Kora! It's amazing to see how much time and effort is used to create this instrument, especially since it's all done by hand!
ReplyDeleteHey Kaylyn! I also found the mbira to be relaxing and peaceful. It's definitely something I could listen to as a sort of Zen destresser. I've never heard of the Valiha and it does sound a lot like the bango. Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteI also did an entry on how koras are made because I was also very curious. We also happened to have used the same video! I didn't realize it was such a lengthy and detailed process, and now that you mention it there does seem to be a lot of hands on work and a lot of helping hands too! Teamwork makes the instrument here.
ReplyDeleteThe mbira is such a fascinating instrument. That's why I bought one on a whim over winter break, and I can't wait to learn how to play it! I think it's super cool that it's a ceremonial instrument used for events that we would normally use the organ or piano for.
Madagascar is such an interesting place, so hearing about its instruments were very cool. The video was very interesting to watch and the chordophones seem similar to not only the kora, but also to some of the ones in the Andes too!