The Chromatic Kalimba is a new acoustic instrument, based on the African thumb piano (Mbira). It is played by plucking the metal tines, which are laid out like a piano keyboard. The instrument is fully chromatic, with a range of more than 3 ½ octaves.

The Chromatic Kalimba is light, compact and easy to store or carry. It has no moving parts and keeps its tuning very well.

This instrument is for now not available as a regular product, because of the amount of work involved. If you are interested in playing this instrument, or helping to develop it into a regular product, send me a message.

A first video of the chromatic kalimba, with some ambient music.

Features

44 Notes from f (F2) to c''' (C6) form a fully chromatic range of more than 3 ½ octaves.

The universal piano layout makes it easy to play for anybody familiar with keyboard instruments.

A unique, warm and natural acoustic sound.

A broad range of musical applications, such as playing melodies with accompaniment, block chords and arpeggios, bass lines, etc.

Small, light and easy to carry (size 55 x 32 x 14 cm (with lid); weight 7.5 kg).

Moderate sound volume makes it ideal for home music or as an educational instrument.

The wooden body contains 4 resonating compartments, for a clear sound across its range.

The removable lid protects the mechanism and functions as a music stand.

With no moving parts, it stays in tune very well.

Here are 7 sound samples in MP3 format. These direct recordings were made with a pair of Neumann KM 184 microphones at a distance of about 30 cm. There has been no overdubbing and no postprocessing. For best results, play back on a good stereo system or use headphones.