Mbira (/ ə m ˈ b ɪər ə / əm-BEER-ə) are a family of musical instruments, traditional to the Shona people of Zimbabwe.

The type of mbira shown here, of the Shona people of Zimbabwe, consists of 22 to 28 metal keys mounted on a gwariva (hardwood soundboard) made from wood of the mubvamaropa tree (Pterocarpus angolensis).

Apr 5, 2025 · mbira, plucked idiophone (instrument whose sounding parts are resonant solids belonging to the body of the instrument itself)—or more specifically, a lamellaphone—that is unique to Africa and widely distributed throughout the continent.

Mbira pervades all aspects of Shona traditional culture, both sacred and secular. The most important function of mbira is as a “telephone to the spirits”, used to contact both deceased ancestors and even more ancient tribal guardians, at all-night bira (pl. mapira) ceremonies.

Enrich your life with the healing music of mbira. Zimbabwean music, instruments and educational info - MBIRA is a non-profit organization supporting 300 traditional musicians and instrument makers in Zimbabwe.

May 22, 2020 · The mbira is a traditional instrument that has been played by the Shona people of Zimbabwe for over a thousand years. The mbira is the national instrument of Zimbabwe, and Google has chosen to celebrate it this week during Zimbabwean Culture Week.

2 days ago · Immerse yourself in the vibrant Zimbabwean culture as i bring to life the mesmerizing mbira rhythm of Nyamaropa ,also known as Nhemamusasa ,in this captivati...

Oct 29, 2023 · The mbira, also known as the “thumb piano,” is a distinctive Zimbabwean percussion instrument. As an idiophone, it features resonant solid components integrated into its own body. Its name, “mbira,” which is often translated as voice of the ancestors, derives from the Shona language of Zimbabwe, a region where this instrument has a rich ...

Jan 15, 2025 · The mbira is a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage, connecting communities with their ancestors. It has evolved into a modern symbol of identity, blending traditional and contemporary music. Preservation efforts, including education and global recognition, safeguard the mbira’s legacy.

Oct 28, 2024 · The mbira, commonly referred to as a thumb piano, consists of metal keys affixed to a soundboard, generating a unique, resonant sound essential to Shona’s spiritual and social customs. Mbira music has progressively evolved, integrating into both traditional and contemporary Zimbabwean culture.