This balafon (BA-la-fone), also known as a bala, or balaphone, is built and tuned to serve as a legitimate high-end, professional instrument, imported from Guinea and Mali. Each instrument is built by hand using traditional tools and techniques. The accurate tuning of the Haré blades is impressive, and the sound created with the buzzing gourds is enchanting and bright. Tuning is standard heptonic with major diatonic tonality in the key of C, D, or F (depending on inventory). Each bala comes with a pair of natural gum mallets, our money back guarantee, and the following features:
- 20-22 blades per bala covering about three octaves
- Haré wood keys, hand tuned and smoked to dry and seal and prevent pitch warping
- Strong bamboo, hardwood, and sinew frame, suited for transport. Dimensions: 46in L; 19in W; 8in H.
- Accurately sized gourds with cellophane-covered holes for the buzzing effect
- Pair of natural gum mallets, perfect for bringing out optimal sound quality
- Actual bala will vary slightly from photos above, but will match written description. Current inventory is from Mali.
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