Custom Professional 11-String Kamale Ngoni w/ Metal Tuning Keys

I handmade this strong, beautiful West African Kamale N'goni last month. 

This ngoni brings a dynamic repertoire to the table, full of timing changes and improvisational prowess. It is an 11-string harp-like instrument - with a melodic and percussive sensibility.

The neck boasts a golden finish on sturdy Ash wood. A believer in local sustainability, the strong calabash (1/3-inch thick!) at the base of the instrument was sourced and shipped to the United States by my family. Goat skin and black Italian leather are attached to the calabash with bamboo to create the deep, sensual sound emanating from the instrument.
To see the full process of building an n'goni, check out my website at www(dot)burkinastrings(dot)comMy last name, Diarra, is a family name associated with the griot. In West African culture, griots are curators of the arts and of history. Griot families are composed of musicians, poets, and storytellers. My mission is to bring traditional music into the modern day, further developing it while remaining true to it’s roots.

Should you have further questions about the instrument, or would like to sign up for Skype lessons, please reach out! You can see more information about my music, instruments, and tour dates here: www(dot)facebook(dot)com(slash)burkinastrings