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Product Specifications
Dimensions:
L 100cm x W 48.5cm x H 28cm
Weight: 7.2 kg
Balafon are wooden keyed percussion instruments from West Africa, known in musical terms as idiophones.
The name comes from the Manding people, but variations exist across the region, including the Balangi (Sierra Leone), Gyil (Dagara), and the Lobi and Gurunsi traditions of Ghana, Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire.
This Mali balafon is handmade by master artisans from individually tuned Khadi hardwood keys, cowhide and calabash gourds.
Khadi is considered one of the finest woods for balafon making.
Mali balafon are distinctive for their large calabash resonators compared to Guinea balafon, with the key bed shaped upwards at the lower register.
The keys are tuned to each other in a pentatonic scale.
Below each key sits a calabash gourd resonator with a small hole covered by thin paper, traditionally a thin membrane, which produces the buzzing vibration characteristic of West African balafon sound.
Shipping & Returns
We dispatch most orders on the same day and ship across Australia and worldwide. Metro deliveries in Australia usually arrive within 2–5 business days, and express options are available at checkout; regional and international timeframes depend on the destination. You’ll receive tracking details when your parcel is on its way.
Need to return your order? Let us know within seven days of delivery. Please keep the item unused and in its original condition. Full details are in our Shipping & Returns policy.
Reviews
FAQs
What is the tuning range of this 16 key balafon?
This 16 key balafon from Mali offers a wider melodic range, allowing you to explore deeper bass tones as well as higher, brighter notes. The extended layout makes it suitable for more developed rhythmic and melodic patterns.
Who is this 16 key balafon best suited for?
The 16 key version is ideal for players looking for greater musical range. It works well for ensemble playing, composition, and performance contexts where more melodic flexibility is required. For a smaller and more portable option, make sure to check our 8 key Balafon.
What instruments go well with an 8 key balafon?
The 8 key balafon blends beautifully with rhythmic instruments such as djembes, congas & bongos, shekeres, and aslatuas. Its focused tonal range makes it perfect for smaller ensembles and rhythm-based sessions.
