Mbira with Bumpy Gourd Resonator

Gourds are used as resonators on a variety of stringed and plucked instruments throughout the African continent. Dozens of landraces of calabash are cultivated, each with distinctive shape, size and physical properties. Several varieties of gourd naturally produce bumpy surfaces that provide advantages both practical (greater grip) and conceptual. In terms of the latter, herbalists in Zimbabwe sometimes choose bumpy gourds as storage containers for particular potions, perhaps because they are a more unusual variety wherein no two examples are remotely alike. It is unknown exactly where this moderately used, vintage thumb piano comes from. The dustpan form of the main element of the instrument is common to the Middle Zambezi and its watershed in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, northern Botwsana and southeastern Angola, and Zambia. Observationally, bumpy gourds are more common in Zimbabwe than other countries, adding some support to the likelihood that this instrument is from the Zambezi region. This is a playable instrument with a pleasant sound and a unique appearance. $250

7″ W

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