![EN](https://api.langeek.co/v1/assets/flags/en.png)
Search
Balafon
01
a large xylophone that is used in Western African music and uses hollow gourds as resonators
What is a "balafon"?
A balafon is a traditional West African percussion instrument similar to a xylophone. It consists of a series of wooden bars of varying lengths, which are arranged in a row and mounted on a frame. Each bar is tuned to a specific pitch and is played by striking it with mallets. Underneath the bars are resonators, often made from gourd or metal, that amplify the sound and give it a rich, resonant quality. The balafon is used in various West African musical traditions to provide melodic and rhythmic support and is known for its warm, resonant tones.
balafon
n
![nearby-words](/assets/icons/near.png)
Nearby Words