Kalimba guides

Everything about the kalimba: what it is, how to play it, how to read tabs and tune it, and which one to buy.

• What is a kalimba? The thumb piano explainedA kalimba is a small thumb piano with metal tines you pluck with your thumbs. Read where it comes from, how it makes sound and why it is so easy to learn.5 min read
• How to play the kalimba: your first eveningLearn to play the kalimba in one evening: how to hold it, how to pluck with alternating thumbs, what the numbers on the tines mean and your first full melody.6 min read
• How to read kalimba tabs: numbers, dots and rhythmKalimba tabs use numbers instead of sheet music. Learn what 1 to 7 mean, how dots show higher octaves, how chords and rhythm are written and how to practise.5 min read
• How to tune a kalimba with a tuning hammerTune your kalimba in ten minutes: tap a tine in to make it shorter and higher, out to make it longer and lower. With all C major notes for 17 keys.6 min read
• Which kalimba should you buy? A practical buying guideBuying a kalimba? Compare 17 keys with 8 keys, wood with acrylic and flat boards with hollow boxes, see what should be included and which things to avoid.6 min read
• Kalimba for kids: which one, from what age, and first songsIs a kalimba a good first instrument for your child? Which age it suits, 8 or 17 keys, how note stickers help, how to keep it intact and five easy songs.5 min read
• 8-key vs 17-key kalimba: which one should you choose?Mini 8-key kalimba or 17-key kalimba? Compare range, which songs fit, size and who each one suits, with song examples that do and do not fit on 8 keys.5 min read
• Chromatic kalimba: what it is and whether you need oneA chromatic kalimba adds sharps and flats, so you can play in every key. Learn how it works, what makes it harder and why most beginners do not need one.5 min read