Definition & Meaning of "balafon"

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.