Hugh Tracey Treble Kalimba 17 Key w/Pickup

Hugh Tracey Kalimba – A Timeless Musical Legacy Handmade in Africa

Discover the enchanting sounds of Africa with our Hugh Tracey Treble Kalimba, a masterpiece of musical craftsmanship. Originating from the innovative vision of ethnomusicologist Hugh Tracey, this iconic instrument embodies over half a century of African musical tradition merged with modern acoustics.

Key Features:

Electronic Pickup: Amplify your music with the built-in electronic pickup, perfect for captivating audiences or personal enjoyment.

17-Note Versatility: Originally tuned in the key of G, spanning 2.5 octaves from B to D, offering a wide range of musical expressions. You can also choose the popular C major tuning as many learning materials online are made for C major tuning (Other tunings are also available; please leave a note at the checkout).

Weighing: around 500g

Dimensions of 14cm × 20cm × 5cm 

The Hugh Tracey Legacy:

Hugh Tracey, an esteemed English ethnomusicologist, began exploring African folk music in the 1920s. By 1954, Tracey had founded the International Library of African Music (ILAM) and also established African Musical Instruments (AMI) to support it. His groundbreaking work led to the creation of the kalimba, a western-tuned adaptation of the traditional African mbira. Tracey's innovation lay in making the kalimba accessible to a global audience while retaining its African roots. He meticulously designed the kalimba with a diatonic scale and an alternating tine layout, choosing kiaat hardwood for its superb acoustic qualities. The Treble Kalimba was his first market introduction, quickly gaining international acclaim. Today, the Hugh Tracey brand is synonymous with quality, cultural heritage, and a blend of African musical tradition with Western musical principles.

Here is an interesting footage of Hugh Tracey talking about his kalimba in 1950s.

Why Choose the Hugh Tracey Treble Kalimba?

Superior Sound Quality: Known for its clear and beautiful tone, this kalimba stands out in solo performances and ensembles.

Durability: Made with high-quality materials ensuring longevity and consistent performance.

Cultural Heritage: Owning this kalimba means possessing a piece of African musical history.

Perfect for musicians, educators, and anyone enchanted by the unique sound of the kalimba, the Hugh Tracey Treble Kalimba is more than an instrument; it's a legacy in your hands.

1. There is a free learning booklet within your order that can teach you all the basics.
2. Follow us on Facebook @littlekalimbashop, we will upload kalimba tabs and mini tutorials regularly.
3. Check this link for some simple yet sweet songs we made for beginners! (we will keep on updating more tabs)

Generally speaking, the flat-board Kalimba produces bright and clear tones, standing out as the clearest sounding among different types. However, the hollow-body Kalimba is the most popular type due to its warm tone and long sustain.

The hollow design provides a unique "wah-wah" sound effect when you move your fingers around the soundhole in the middle, making it a delight to play.

On the other hand, the Acrylic Kalimba delivers a very clear tone as well. However, acrylic, as a material, doesn't vibrate as much as wood, meaning the sound produced by the Acrylic Kalimba is quieter compared to the wooden one.

As for the influence of wood type on the tone, it's not substantial but still noticeable. Importantly, the shape of the Kalimba has a more significant impact on the sound than the type of wood used.

Regardless of the differences in materials or shapes, the method of playing remains the same. Thus, choosing a Kalimba that features colour and design that you find most appealing would enhance the overall enjoyment of your playing experience!