TRADITIONAL INSTRUMENT AMONG THE KAMBA

The Kamba mbeve is a good example of the gourd-resonated fiddle. The gourd is ‘inverted and then pierced on both sides by a small bow. A string (formerly a tendon from a cow) is stretched across the membrane at the top and affixed on either side to the bow. The bridge, as stated earlier, is optional.
The cylindrical wood-resonated fiddle is more common in western Kenya, and was traditionally used with a bridge. The tuning loops and indents found on similar instruments in the south-eastern parts of Africa1 are not used in Kenya. Instead the tuning peg which holds the string is turned. The bridge may be moved to either end of the membrane to increase or decrease the tension in the string.
Bows
Kenyan youth have always used their hunting bows as instruments although not much attention is paid to this form of music. Although the hunting bow is used for entertainment, it must be ritually cleaned if it is to be used for therapeutic purposes by traditional doctors. Among the Kamba, traditional doctors use the bow to communicate with the spiritual world as well as to diagnose disease; bows so used may not be used for hunting or entertainment purposes.


The image below  is  known as mbeve and is one among the  most used  kamba traditional instrument
  which was as a guitar  during the past. This instrument was played  during traditional ceremonies   such as wedding ceremony  dancing ceremony and circumcision ceremony . The instrument was not just bay anyone but by professionals among the kamba community.









Comments

  1. HayeesSeptember 2, 2024 at 2:18 AM

    The violin, a stringed instrument with a rich history, is known for its expressive tone and versatility. Played with a bow, it features four strings and is a key component of orchestras, chamber music, and solo performances. Originating in 16th-century Italy, the violins has evolved into a symbol of classical music, yet it is also embraced in genres like folk, jazz, and contemporary music, showcasing its enduring appeal across cultures.

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