Musical instruments

Mali is home to some of the most beautiful music in Africa. The traditional music of Mali is based on the songs of the Djelis (or griots), a distinct caste in the social structure since the days of the Malian Empire.

A range of traditional instruments are used including the Ngoni (a type of 6-string guitar), the Djembe (deer hide drum) and are frequently blended with modern keyboards, electric guitars, flutes, strings, etc.

The choice of instrument for the djelis is the kora, a harp-lute string instrument with 21 strings stretched over a long neck of rosewood and plucked with the thumb and index finger of each hand.

N'Goni

Kora

Balafon

Djembé

Konga

Tamani (Talking Drum)