Are you looking for a unique, relaxing, and easy-to-learn musical instrument to play? Look no further than the kalimba! This hand-held African thumb piano has gained immense popularity over the past few years due to its mesmerizing sound and ease of play. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician looking to try something new, the kalimba is an excellent choice.
In this beginner’s guide, we’ll cover all the essential points you need to know to start learning and playing the kalimba. From understanding what to consider before buying one to how to play basic notes and popular tunes, we’ve got you covered.
What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Kalimba?
Before you jump in and buy a kalimba, there are a few essential things to consider:
Material and Build Quality
Most kalimbas are made of wood and have metal tines. The quality of the wood and metal affects the sound quality and the durability of the instrument. A high-quality kalimba’s tines will deliver a more resonant sound, and the wood will last longer.
Number of Tines
Different kalimbas have a different number of tines, and they come in various shapes and sizes. The most popular ones are the 10, 17, and 21 tine kalimbas. A beginner should opt for a 10-17 tine kalimba as it’s easier to handle and has a more straightforward setup.
Price
Like any other musical instrument, kalimbas come in a range of prices. You can find affordable ones for as low as $20 and premium ones that could cost over $500. It’s best to find a kalimba that’s within your budget but doesn’t compromise on quality.
Kalimba Classes: Where to Learn and How to Get Started
Now that you know what to consider before buying a kalimba, the next step is to get started and learn how to play it. There are several ways to learn, and you can choose the one that suits you best.
Free Online Resources
Several websites offer free kalimba tablatures, tutorials, and sheet music for beginners. You can access these resources at your convenience and pace. Noteworthy resources are Kalimba Magic, YouTube, and Pinterest.
Kalimba Classes
Kalimba classes are another excellent way to learn the instrument. You can find local classes or online tutors and enroll for structured lessons. This can cost between $10-$50 per hour, depending on several factors such as the level of expertise of the tutor and the availability of the resource.
Play-Along Kalimba Apps
Several mobile apps, such as Kalimba Connect, and real kalimba games, provide kalimba players with a perfect way to practice their skills. The apps come with kalimbas of different configurations, both real and fictional. Play-along kalimba apps not only teach the basics but also enable you to learn and expand your repertoire.
Playing the Kalimba: A Beginner’s Guide
Playing the kalimba is easy and straightforward, and with consistent practice, you can master it in no time. Here’s how to get started:
How Do You Play Kalimba for Dummies?
The kalimba is a simple hand-held instrument that teaches itself how to play. It’s played by plucking the tines with your thumbs. You place the kalimba on a flat surface, grasp both ends and pluck the tines using your thumbs. It produces a beautiful, mesmerizing sound that soothes and calms.
How to Learn Kalimba Notes
The most important thing to learn when playing the kalimba is the notes. The notes are represented by numbers, and the tines are labeled accordingly. To play a note, pluck the tine with your thumb using a slight rolling motion and let it vibrate. The sound is similar to a music box.
How to Play Kalimba 17-Key
The 17-Key Kalimba is currently the most popular version amongst beginners as it offers the most melody and range compared to the 10- or 15- key kalimbas. While learning to play directly, it would be best to start with simple songs that use only one or two notes before progressing to more complex ones.
Kalimba Tabs
Kalimba tabs are shortcuts to playing a piece without having to read traditional sheet music. They are labeled using numbers or symbols representing the tines that you should pluck to reproduce a melody. Kalimba tabs work wonders for beginners, and once you learn a few songs, you can quickly improvise and compose tunes of your own.
Kalimba Songs for Beginners
There are several popular kalimba songs that make an excellent starting point for learners. Some of the popular ones include “Can’t help falling in love with you” by Elvis Presley, “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, and “White Sandy Beach” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, among others. Start with a few simple songs and progress to more challenging ones gradually.
Where to Find Kalimbas Online
You can buy kalimbas from various online stores such as Amazon and reputable sellers on Etsy. You may also find kalimbas on local auction sites. When purchasing from online stores, you want to ensure that the seller is reliable and ships to your location.
Is It Easy to Learn the Kalimba?
Yes! The kalimba is one of the easiest instruments to learn and play. It will take you just a few minutes to learn simple songs, and with consistent practice, you’ll be able to master the instrument.
How Do I Start Learning the Kalimba?
Start with learning the notes and some basic songs. The best way to do this is by signing up for a class, watching tutorial videos online, or playing along with kalimba apps. And most importantly, practice consistently and have fun while you’re at it.
In Conclusion
Playing the kalimba is a perfect way to relax, unwind, and make beautiful music. We hope this guide has provided you with enough information to get started and inspired you to continue learning and expanding your musical repertoire. Remember, consistency, practice, and having fun are the key to mastering the kalimba.