excellent colleague first time I hear and see someone play this instrument and I thought fantastic, what had previously only heard the name and had no idea it was so small and where do I practice I can get one and how much it costs? I would like to learn something I subscribe to your account visit my videos on purpose colleague punta arenas chile am thanks greetings
I make my living importing kalimbas and selling them in the US and around the world, and writing kalimba instructional books. The kalimbas I sell range in price from $31 to $250, and this one is about $145. Search the internet for Kalimba Magic and you'll find me right away.
@kalimbamagic I just got this Kalimba the other day and its beautiful! I just wanted to ask if its okay to use white mineral oil (which i basically use for my guitars fret board) to clean and moist it?
These are really neat! I'm really interested in experimenting with new and unfamiliar instruments, and this might be just the thing considering they can apparently be found for moderately reasonable prices... Great demonstration!!!
hey man... first i really like your song. its great man! coming from germany...i was just down in south africa, cape town, working there in the townships for a year. but couldnt find a decent sounding kalimba.. now this one really sounds like a nice piece.. whats the best way to get it here in germany? oh yeah, and im not sure about which version to get. because i think the pick up - one is a cool add. but isnt the metalplug botherin when playing it just by itself without an amp?!
@EdVonSchleck17 Ah, this is the Hugh Tracey Alto Kalimba, and they sell them in Cape Town, make them in Grahamstown, South Africa. There is a shop in Germany that sells them too, or if you can't find that, buy from Kalimba Magic on the internet. The jack does not interfere with the kalimba's acoustic sound.
This is the first time I have ever seen/heard this instrument(may have heard it before without knowing it was Kalimba) But I must say, I really enjoy its sound and you seem like you're very talented at playing it. Cool instrument and cool video. Sounds awesome.
I never saw this instrument before in my life. So the instrument name is Kalimba? I love the sound of this instrument, sounds very cool and peaceful.
Hey, there is still quite a bit of improvisation in this piece, so the tablature is just an approximation of what the song is, which will be different each time it is played.
I just saw a video with one of these connected to an acoustic guitar and the guy was playing both so this is the very first time I am really hearing one of these beautiful sounding instruments.
hey, when you get that wah-wah like effect, is there any material over the soundhole to assist in producing that noise, or do you simply modulate with your thumb?
I just use my thumbs --- and there are two smaller sound holes on the back. Imagine you are squeezing the sound like a sponge, covering the front and back simultaneously. ALSO note that the WAH WAH affect does not work equally well for all notes, but mainly for the most resonant notes, in the midrange of the instrument (ie, halfway up the left and right sides, but not the longest central notes or the shortest notes on the far right and left). -Mark
It is no bother at all - I make my living importing kalimbas from Africa, Germany, and two makers in the US. Search for Kalimbamagic on the web and you'll find me right away - KalimbaMagic has a lot of resources to help you pick out a good kalimba for yourself. This one is the Hugh Tracey Alto Kalimba. -Mark
I purchased a Kalimba from you a month ago or so, and absolutely love it! I am not nearly this good, but just from watching the video can play the first 30 seconds or so. I hope to get really good with this instrument, I bring it with me to work every day and play in my down town before work starts.
You're great on this device, keep up the originals!
AHH!! My friend just bought this intrument and I a Ukulele... We're so exited for them to be delivered... and this inspires me sooo much!! Thank you! So pretty! :)
I love the Kalimba, I was interested in learning how to play it after playing the Uke for a few years. it has a bell like quality - a same kind of resonance ( at the risk of sounding wanky) as the Uke.
My Kalimba is tuned to G major, it sounded ethereal with your tuning
This is the standard tuning in G major. i am playing this song in B minor, and almost entirely avoid the C (which would be the minor 2nd, giving a middle-eastern sort of feel that I don't want in this song). -Mark
I'm trying to make one of these right now and would love to tune it in the same pattern. What do you mean by standard tuning in G Major? What are the order of the notes? Also, this is the most awesome tune I've ever heard on the kalimba...
David - below the video, click on "Show More" to see more info on this kalimba. The bottom link in that info takes you to a page about the Alto Kalimba which includes the standard tuning for the Hugh Tracey Alto Kalimba, the tuning used in this video. -Mark
What a fantastically whimsical instrument; this particular style I find myself especially fond of. I can just imagine this in use with a glass armonica and perhaps a mandolin.
That's OK - I just found out I don't like the musical saw. I guess there is something for everyone to dislike, eh?
BUT on the other hand, I feel so blessed that I have found the instrument that I can soar through the heavens with. I hope you too find such an instrument. -Mark
I am glad you have found an instrument you love. I would like to see everyone find an instrument that they want to learn to play I think the would would be a much better place. For me it is the Harmonica, I have also been learning the ocarina the past couple of months
@harpintn I don't like accordion. or that huge-ass mexican one note guitar. But its ok. Some people seem to like these that you hear them coming down the street.
@UpcomingJedi I am not slamming the kalimba, I am just saying it is not for me. Musical styles and instruments are a matter of personal taste. I know that not everyone likes a harmonica, and I am fine with that.
@kalimbamagic so the G tuned hugh tracey chromatic kalimba has exactly the same front like the one in this video^^? but then has additional tones on the back? did i understand that right? this would be cool because i can start learning the "normal/basic" kalimba and then learn to use the back side, too =) thank you!
@kalimbamagic hey, i just got the ktabs reader and i found out that the alto G kalimba doesnt have the F note but the F# note only. the chromatic has the F where the alto has the F#. or am i wrong there? i guess that would make it harder to play this song on a chromatic, right? =/ (i love this song;) )
The Chromatic can be set up in two ways (well, MANY, but I sell it in two standard setups): the C setup with key of C on the front and Bb, Eb, Ab, Db, Gb = F# on the back - some musical purists prefer it this way. The G setup with key of G on the front (G A B C D E F#) and "flats" on the back: F (the flat of F#), Bb, Eb, Ab, Db. SO the G setup plays First Look Inside just fine. I sell 75% G and 25% C.
@kalimbamagic im just really confused now because i got some tabs for "chromatic" from ktabs and the tuning there shows: G A B C D E F while for "G alto tabs" ("first look inside" tab for example) it shows: G A B C D E F#. on kalimbamagic . com/chromatic/ it shows the same: no F# on the front side. only on the back side. so if all that information is right, the front side of the G tuned chromatic is not the same as the G tuned alto !? sorry for all my confusion =/
Most of it can - it is in the mixolydian mode, with a flat 7th, so you need to know where on the kalimba to start. There are a lot of notes there, I would arrange the melody and a simple chordal accompaniment on the kalimba (not quite as full as this recording) - ALSO, there are spots when the music sort of comes unglued and there are "accidentals" - notes that are not in the mixolydian scale - and you can't play those notes (unless you have a chromatic kalimba).
Im gonna make one at school now. Ok, im thinking cigar box (or ill make one L-25cm, W 20cm Thickness 10cm) but what should i use for the arms? a video said coping saw blades work well. reply please!
I bought one of these at Disney World's Animal Kingdom. I'm already a musician, but I've fallen in love with the kalimba's sound. Of course the one I have now probably isn't as up to snuff as a real one.
Well, the KalimbaMagic YouTube channel is an extension of the KaimbaMagic website and business. In other words, Google KalimbaMagic and you'll find me right away. And we are dependable. -Mark Holdaway, Founder, Kalimba Magic
PS: If you use the coupon code CAT10 when checking out, you can get 10% off.
How did you tune this? did you just have two octaves going out from the central tine? or is it just chromatic like a piano and the black tape helps you navigate the notes better? I plan on building one and i'm not sure how many notes im going to want.
This is the standard tuning - two octaves in G major, alternating note layout. I am playing in B minor (phrygian, though I stay away from the C most of the time), a mode of the G major scale.
The painted tines help me navigate the notes mainly - will send you a link to a recent newsletter article! -mark
True Story: Mother and Son friends of mine from church drove past me every morning while I was playing kalimba waiting for the bus, and they argued: "WHAT is he doing?" Son: "I think he's playing a Gameboy!"
Mother: "NO, I think its a Palm Pilot". Finally Mother asks me "WHAT are you doing every morning at the bus stop?" Mark: "PLAYING KALIMBA!"
@kalimbamagic wow...thats really cool....how much do these instruments cost and what sort of time scale are you looking at to become proficient at it?
would you believe i discovered this amazing instrument because i was reading a Giles/Xander story? awesome playing dude. funny when you start bouncing your legs when you really get into it.
What are your thoughts on Meinl kalimbas? They're kinda my go-to company for any kind of percussion instruments, but then again, I don't have any experience with kalimbas.
I have not played a Meinl kalimba, but their other percussion is top notch.
I have a fight with them - they copied the Sansula on their first kalimba design, which is shameful. They have at least one other design - 9 note alternating, and I have no issue with that one.
I have written 15 books and 16 downloads for kalimbas like the Hugh Tracey Alto, but there is no instructional material for the Meinl kalimbas (except for the Sansula Book I wrote, that works for the Sansula knock off).
This one is the Hugh Tracey Alto kalimba, and it is a great kalimba.
I make my living importing Hugh Tracey kalimbas and a few other brands - you can get them at the Kalimba Magic site. You can get a 10% discount using the coupon code CAT10.
There are other decent kalimbas out there, but also many not so good kalimbas. -Mark
I am absolutely in love with this instrument. Ive been watching videos and I just adore the way it sounds.
Best part is its so portable! I can take it with me anywhere. Im sure people will love me on the long rides to and from work on the bus with this thing. Even better, is that its an instant conversation piece! Its so unique.
Yes, it is a good way to meet cool and interesting people, by walking around and playing. I rode the bus for 10 years while playing kalimba, and once a woman asked me to stop because "that music offends me" - I didn't know what that was about, but I did stop that day. I usually played very quietly on the bus, and much louder while walking. Glad you enjoy the kalimba! -Mark
@kalimbamagic whaaat?!?! how could it offend her? Its one of the most peaceful sounding instruments ive ever heard. She must be a devil worshiper to take offense to that
I saw these at the Lark in the Morning store before it closed in San Fransisco. I had NO idea they could sound so....beautiful. I'm going between a Kalimba, Ukulele, or Pocket Sax. If the first, I will definitely buy from your site! Thank you for sharing your gift of music with us.
I started learning this using the tabs you posted a while back, but it sounds different than you play it. On your video you seem to be using the F# on the very left a lot more often that the tabs specify to. I like the sound of your video a lot more than how the tabs sound and I was wondering if you could post a more a accurate tab.
Lib (I forgot your name, but remember that I just sent you a kalimba) - yeah, the video is improvised - I mean I made a mistake, and liked it, so I kept on doing it. I guess that would be a good thing to do - try to figure out exactly what I did in the video and put that into tablature. But I don't think I ever play this song the same way twice, even though there is supposedly a RIGHT way to do THIS song at least.
ALSO, listen to the version on the Catalog CD - different still. -Mark
Very nice done. Ive would like to get the same u played in this video. This shop you link to, do they deliver to germany too? Because im from germany and i cant find it in german stores.
Very nice done. Ive would like to get the same u played in this video. This shop you link to, do they deliver to germany too? Because im from germany and i cant find it in german stores.
excellent colleague first time I hear and see someone play this instrument and I thought fantastic, what had previously only heard the name and had no idea it was so small and where do I practice I can get one and how much it costs? I would like to learn something I subscribe to your account visit my videos on purpose colleague punta arenas chile am thanks greetings
danilo20766 1 day ago
Danilo -
I make my living importing kalimbas and selling them in the US and around the world, and writing kalimba instructional books. The kalimbas I sell range in price from $31 to $250, and this one is about $145. Search the internet for Kalimba Magic and you'll find me right away.
kalimbamagic 21 hours ago
I just ordered my first kalimba ...and I can't wait!
4life20music 2 days ago
that was amazing
izuzetni 5 days ago
Glad you like it!
kalimbamagic 5 days ago
@kalimbamagic i never herd of this instrument but it sounds incredible :)
rehan9824 2 days ago
Try playing something from monkey island.... it would sound awesome
P4D3LL05 1 week ago
hy,can i use this as my video's soundtrack,please? yre so amazing!
aera137 1 week ago
This is just an all around amazing song. I would play this thing for hours.
dontrunmusic 1 week ago
@dontrunmusic Don - do you have an alto kalimba? I've written out the tablature for this song, and it is freely available.
kalimbamagic 1 week ago
@kalimbamagic I just got this Kalimba the other day and its beautiful! I just wanted to ask if its okay to use white mineral oil (which i basically use for my guitars fret board) to clean and moist it?
Psychopath92 1 week ago
@Psychopath92 I think mineral oil would be fine. I use shea butter.
kalimbamagic 1 week ago
Beautiful!
Akosuaification 2 weeks ago
Teacher: "What instrument do you play?"
Kid: "Spikes pointed at my face"
merrymagician101 3 weeks ago
coolest instrument name
Regginyaga 3 weeks ago
yep, I'm buying one
gherkin007 1 month ago in playlist Favorite videos
These are really neat! I'm really interested in experimenting with new and unfamiliar instruments, and this might be just the thing considering they can apparently be found for moderately reasonable prices... Great demonstration!!!
adamlyon 1 month ago
You can buy this kalimba - the Alto Hugh Tracey Kalimba - from my web store at Kalimba Magic. The coupon code CAT11 will get you 11% off.
kalimbamagic 1 month ago
@kalimbamagic
hey man... first i really like your song. its great man! coming from germany...i was just down in south africa, cape town, working there in the townships for a year. but couldnt find a decent sounding kalimba.. now this one really sounds like a nice piece.. whats the best way to get it here in germany? oh yeah, and im not sure about which version to get. because i think the pick up - one is a cool add. but isnt the metalplug botherin when playing it just by itself without an amp?!
EdVonSchleck17 1 month ago
@EdVonSchleck17 Ah, this is the Hugh Tracey Alto Kalimba, and they sell them in Cape Town, make them in Grahamstown, South Africa. There is a shop in Germany that sells them too, or if you can't find that, buy from Kalimba Magic on the internet. The jack does not interfere with the kalimba's acoustic sound.
kalimbamagic 1 month ago
@kalimbamagic
where in cape town can you get it? and for how much? because i still have friends over there who could take one back to germany for me! thanks!
EdVonSchleck17 1 month ago
This is the first time I have ever seen/heard this instrument(may have heard it before without knowing it was Kalimba) But I must say, I really enjoy its sound and you seem like you're very talented at playing it. Cool instrument and cool video. Sounds awesome.
0verload 1 month ago
Super joli !
CInSpace32777 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
hey man really good job you do. congrats on that talent. I play that instrument too, but you have opened my eyes about some of the technique! :)
thedonaldneu 2 months ago
hey man really good job you do. congrats on that talent. I play that instrument too, but you have opened my eyes about some of the technique! :)
thedonaldneu 2 months ago
hm. I wonder how this would sound accompanied with some panpipes? Gunna have to get me one of these amazing instruments!
Dedicated222Duty 2 months ago
Beautiful song, I love the thumb bends you throw in there, just awesome.
MY dad played the Kalimba and this brings back some great memories, thank you!
I'm inspired to get one of my own and start practicing!
Play on! Love and Light
Ellyas87 2 months ago
This is damn cool
drhoneybadger 2 months ago
I never saw this instrument before in my life. So the instrument name is Kalimba? I love the sound of this instrument, sounds very cool and peaceful.
hpdragon723 2 months ago
Sometimes I hear different/more notes than in the tabulature. Is it possible or you play quite the same notes?
Idolaa 3 months ago
Hey, there is still quite a bit of improvisation in this piece, so the tablature is just an approximation of what the song is, which will be different each time it is played.
kalimbamagic 3 months ago
Brilliant, the kalimba has such a tantalizing sound.
ViXoN2 3 months ago
Guys, having played a kalimba, this is really impressive. Mark knows what he's doing!
itworkss 3 months ago
Wow, that was beautiful.
deltaray3 3 months ago
I just saw a video with one of these connected to an acoustic guitar and the guy was playing both so this is the very first time I am really hearing one of these beautiful sounding instruments.
Tarasepp 3 months ago
@Tarasepp Trevor Gordon Hall - Kalimbatar isnt it?
WretchedOne 3 months ago
hey, when you get that wah-wah like effect, is there any material over the soundhole to assist in producing that noise, or do you simply modulate with your thumb?
gxlxs 3 months ago
I just use my thumbs --- and there are two smaller sound holes on the back. Imagine you are squeezing the sound like a sponge, covering the front and back simultaneously. ALSO note that the WAH WAH affect does not work equally well for all notes, but mainly for the most resonant notes, in the midrange of the instrument (ie, halfway up the left and right sides, but not the longest central notes or the shortest notes on the far right and left). -Mark
kalimbamagic 3 months ago
fantasic!!
MrsYackita 4 months ago
I don' t want to bother you but do you know where I can get one kalimba, I really want to learn to play a kalimba
AlternativeQAZ 4 months ago
Al,
It is no bother at all - I make my living importing kalimbas from Africa, Germany, and two makers in the US. Search for Kalimbamagic on the web and you'll find me right away - KalimbaMagic has a lot of resources to help you pick out a good kalimba for yourself. This one is the Hugh Tracey Alto Kalimba. -Mark
kalimbamagic 4 months ago
@kalimbamagic thanks you have really helped me :D
AlternativeQAZ 4 months ago
Thats awesome.
simplofi 4 months ago
holy crap i love this!!!!!
wangsta231 4 months ago
hallo mark i have upload the REMIX now!!! i hope you like it!!
kanemurasims 4 months ago in playlist Liked
its nothing to say ...ilove this song!! this is GREAT!!!
kanemurasims 4 months ago in playlist Liked
I have played the same looking calimba but the sound was more like rhodes. Great video :)
dbbification 4 months ago
I purchased a Kalimba from you a month ago or so, and absolutely love it! I am not nearly this good, but just from watching the video can play the first 30 seconds or so. I hope to get really good with this instrument, I bring it with me to work every day and play in my down town before work starts.
You're great on this device, keep up the originals!
itworkss 4 months ago
nice guy that instrument
tries to make music of the series nascar racers to see how it looks
TheDALBORGHA 4 months ago
Magical, mesmerising. So many unique instruments, so little time.
misstinwhistle1 4 months ago
AHH!! My friend just bought this intrument and I a Ukulele... We're so exited for them to be delivered... and this inspires me sooo much!! Thank you! So pretty! :)
SammyPup23 4 months ago
Chevere !!! very nice, i love it.
bellacoli89 5 months ago
amazing. i ordered a treble and an alto after watching this video. thanks for inspiring me
PyramidHead0001 5 months ago
Kick Ass I want one now!
vidzane 5 months ago in playlist Musician Food
I love the Kalimba, I was interested in learning how to play it after playing the Uke for a few years. it has a bell like quality - a same kind of resonance ( at the risk of sounding wanky) as the Uke.
My Kalimba is tuned to G major, it sounded ethereal with your tuning
Moo8443 5 months ago
Nice!
GuitarMirth 5 months ago
cool
sweetnickable 5 months ago
Very nice and peaceful.. love it.. Kept hearing it in Earth Wind and Fire tunes and had to find out more. thanks for sharing.
djsun25 5 months ago
what tunining is on this kalimba?
ernestasdima 6 months ago
This is the standard tuning in G major. i am playing this song in B minor, and almost entirely avoid the C (which would be the minor 2nd, giving a middle-eastern sort of feel that I don't want in this song). -Mark
kalimbamagic 6 months ago
I'm trying to make one of these right now and would love to tune it in the same pattern. What do you mean by standard tuning in G Major? What are the order of the notes? Also, this is the most awesome tune I've ever heard on the kalimba...
Davidthetree 5 months ago
David - below the video, click on "Show More" to see more info on this kalimba. The bottom link in that info takes you to a page about the Alto Kalimba which includes the standard tuning for the Hugh Tracey Alto Kalimba, the tuning used in this video. -Mark
kalimbamagic 5 months ago
Thank you! This is a huge help!
Davidthetree 5 months ago
Thank you so much! This is still my favorite Kalimba video out there.
Davidthetree 4 months ago
@kalimbamagic c sharp?
lucadepu 5 months ago
@lucadepu nevermind it's tuned in g maj then it's a natural c.
lucadepu 5 months ago
What a fantastically whimsical instrument; this particular style I find myself especially fond of. I can just imagine this in use with a glass armonica and perhaps a mandolin.
TeamGreenBurrito 6 months ago
bravo, bravo!!
giantmothlbr 6 months ago
is the 10% off coupon still CAT10?
bmwz20 6 months ago
@bmwz20 Yes :)
itworkss 5 months ago
Oh yea, this reminds me. I need to cut my nails...
Btw - Beautiful
VictimsofaDown11 6 months ago
I like it very much!! Very good!!
MartaErmy 6 months ago
a very strange instrument I am not sure if I like it or not. Either way it is not for me.
harpintn 6 months ago
That's OK - I just found out I don't like the musical saw. I guess there is something for everyone to dislike, eh?
BUT on the other hand, I feel so blessed that I have found the instrument that I can soar through the heavens with. I hope you too find such an instrument. -Mark
kalimbamagic 6 months ago 16
@kalimbamagic
I am glad you have found an instrument you love. I would like to see everyone find an instrument that they want to learn to play I think the would would be a much better place. For me it is the Harmonica, I have also been learning the ocarina the past couple of months
harpintn 6 months ago
@harpintn I don't like accordion. or that huge-ass mexican one note guitar. But its ok. Some people seem to like these that you hear them coming down the street.
UpcomingJedi 6 months ago
@UpcomingJedi I am not slamming the kalimba, I am just saying it is not for me. Musical styles and instruments are a matter of personal taste. I know that not everyone likes a harmonica, and I am fine with that.
harpintn 6 months ago
o m g ! cool
gvndud 7 months ago
I would hire someone just to stand behind me so I always have my own theme music anywhere I go.
NaturalGroundation 7 months ago 10
@NaturalGroundation Would you feed them your ego too?
IdentNone 2 weeks ago
that is cool as fuck
electrocuteanna 7 months ago
You've just sold a kalimba :D
SoniasUsername 7 months ago
wow!
MISSDEEDEVINE1 7 months ago
this is awesome.
88tide 7 months ago
15 people's minds were so blown that their hands were shaking badly when they reached for the thumbs up button.
josephknightcom 7 months ago 2
people have to be mental not to love this. i saw a kalimba with a hole on the side i was doing wah effects with.
mully2point0 7 months ago
Knee-Gasm, anyone?
igotsmoshedify 7 months ago 2
Which tuning did you use for this? The alternating bass seems to be on the right side. Thanks
olgoat52 7 months ago
Good! its very enchanting.
FransisR 8 months ago
Comment removed
ArchaicMusics 8 months ago
so calm and yet so hasty O.o
very cool :D
Danpcz 8 months ago 2
Specifically, whichKalimba are you using?
Wolvesblood97 8 months ago in playlist KALIMBA
Hugh Tracey 15-Note ALTO KALIMBA. -Mark
kalimbamagic 8 months ago
@kalimbamagic THANK YOU! :D
Wolvesblood97 8 months ago
lovely tune!
keep it up :)
rocioalons 8 months ago
I want one so bad. Where can I get one??
H0yaman 8 months ago
From Kalimba Magic on the internet. You can get 10% off with the coupon code CAT10. -Mark
kalimbamagic 8 months ago
Grandiose !!!!!!
Bloody62 8 months ago
That's F-ing sweet!!!
23weso20 8 months ago
u can hear the music wow
thcci 8 months ago
do you need long fingernails to play the kalimba or can you just play it with your thumbs without fingernails?
this video really made me want to buy one. i think i like the hugh tracey chromatic kalimba alot. just not sure if i should go with g or c tuning..!?
EvilKnebl 8 months ago
I play with my nails, others play with their thumb flesh.
Chromatic is jumping into the deep end, Evil.
If you are an experienced musician, go for it. C ==> if you have music in C you want to play.
G ==> if you are planning on using the Alto Books (or learn this song - which is in the
standard G Alto tuning - chromo in G is THIS KALIMBA on the front side).
kalimbamagic 8 months ago
@kalimbamagic so the G tuned hugh tracey chromatic kalimba has exactly the same front like the one in this video^^? but then has additional tones on the back? did i understand that right? this would be cool because i can start learning the "normal/basic" kalimba and then learn to use the back side, too =) thank you!
EvilKnebl 8 months ago
You got it! -M
kalimbamagic 8 months ago
@kalimbamagic thats awesome! thank you for the info, you'll get my order soon hopefully when i have some money left ;)
EvilKnebl 8 months ago
@kalimbamagic hey, i just got the ktabs reader and i found out that the alto G kalimba doesnt have the F note but the F# note only. the chromatic has the F where the alto has the F#. or am i wrong there? i guess that would make it harder to play this song on a chromatic, right? =/ (i love this song;) )
EvilKnebl 8 months ago
The Chromatic can be set up in two ways (well, MANY, but I sell it in two standard setups): the C setup with key of C on the front and Bb, Eb, Ab, Db, Gb = F# on the back - some musical purists prefer it this way. The G setup with key of G on the front (G A B C D E F#) and "flats" on the back: F (the flat of F#), Bb, Eb, Ab, Db. SO the G setup plays First Look Inside just fine. I sell 75% G and 25% C.
kalimbamagic 8 months ago
@kalimbamagic im just really confused now because i got some tabs for "chromatic" from ktabs and the tuning there shows: G A B C D E F while for "G alto tabs" ("first look inside" tab for example) it shows: G A B C D E F#. on kalimbamagic . com/chromatic/ it shows the same: no F# on the front side. only on the back side. so if all that information is right, the front side of the G tuned chromatic is not the same as the G tuned alto !? sorry for all my confusion =/
EvilKnebl 8 months ago
Will send you links to two web pages that explain the two tunings.
kalimbamagic 8 months ago
Lovely stuff.
FoFumFilms 8 months ago
I have a question.. Could music like this:
youtube.com/watch?v=nL6fcwINc64
be easily translated into kalimba sheet music?
BluexArcher 8 months ago
Most of it can - it is in the mixolydian mode, with a flat 7th, so you need to know where on the kalimba to start. There are a lot of notes there, I would arrange the melody and a simple chordal accompaniment on the kalimba (not quite as full as this recording) - ALSO, there are spots when the music sort of comes unglued and there are "accidentals" - notes that are not in the mixolydian scale - and you can't play those notes (unless you have a chromatic kalimba).
Good luck!
kalimbamagic 8 months ago
are you distorting the sound with your thumb? do all of them do that? i want to get one. but i want to make sure its good. i only have 60 bucks
PancakeJake123 9 months ago
By covering and uncovering the sound holes, I change the resonant frequency of the air in the box -
For about $60 -- Catania Gourd Piano (8 or 12 notes) or the Goshen 8 or 11 note Goshen Box Kalimba.
(I sell those models).
OR Meinl kalimba - there are some that are hollowed out and can do the wah. -Mark
kalimbamagic 9 months ago
Four Tet at the Toilet.
mrcraabz 9 months ago 7
What do you mean?
kalimbamagic 9 months ago
Comment removed
titusclay 9 months ago
király
ReggaeMuzik2 9 months ago
This looks like alot of fun to play, both the instrument and tune. Do you have fun playing this instrument? =D
TwiddleXTormenT 9 months ago
You BET I do!
kalimbamagic 9 months ago
This is my favourite of all Kalimba tunes I have heard. Do you have a New Zealand distributer please?
gingershock 9 months ago
I don't think there is a NZ distributor. There is an AU distributor, David Gale - Kalimba Karisma.
AND I ship internationally as well. -Mark
kalimbamagic 9 months ago
I need to find the chart to tune a chromatic. Can anybody direct me to a source?
nemetonsanctuary 9 months ago
so that's how they did that music on Avatar the last airbender.
gregtestagent 9 months ago
lol that is the same one i have
tie32101 9 months ago
Im gonna make one at school now. Ok, im thinking cigar box (or ill make one L-25cm, W 20cm Thickness 10cm) but what should i use for the arms? a video said coping saw blades work well. reply please!
Brentypooz 9 months ago
I sell spring steel at about $1/ft.
kalimbamagic 9 months ago
That was freak'n AWESOME!
Now I know what i'm asking for when my birthday comes around.
elecktroid 9 months ago
I bought one of these at Disney World's Animal Kingdom. I'm already a musician, but I've fallen in love with the kalimba's sound. Of course the one I have now probably isn't as up to snuff as a real one.
Strang3rDanger 10 months ago
Awesome instrument *-*
pearljamania 10 months ago
Dude, I so want one of these things.
iluvlost09 10 months ago
i love this. The plucking sound is a very natural percussion to go along with the melody. I need to buy one. Can you recommend a dependable website?
SROD12321 10 months ago 3
Well, the KalimbaMagic YouTube channel is an extension of the KaimbaMagic website and business. In other words, Google KalimbaMagic and you'll find me right away. And we are dependable. -Mark Holdaway, Founder, Kalimba Magic
PS: If you use the coupon code CAT10 when checking out, you can get 10% off.
kalimbamagic 10 months ago 2
@kalimbamagic hey I think I'm going to buy this exact Kalimba... was just wondering whether you ship to the UK?
sparkanotherowl23 9 months ago
Yes I do! -M
kalimbamagic 9 months ago
How did you tune this? did you just have two octaves going out from the central tine? or is it just chromatic like a piano and the black tape helps you navigate the notes better? I plan on building one and i'm not sure how many notes im going to want.
mattgav23 10 months ago
This is the standard tuning - two octaves in G major, alternating note layout. I am playing in B minor (phrygian, though I stay away from the C most of the time), a mode of the G major scale.
The painted tines help me navigate the notes mainly - will send you a link to a recent newsletter article! -mark
kalimbamagic 10 months ago
@mattgav23
street sweeper blades make good tines and can be collected from some city streets
cocotap1 10 months ago
looks funny :D
Vaneu93 11 months ago
i want one! haha
MrShawProductions 11 months ago
i love this thing man this is awesome and i also thought it was pretty funny seeing you get so into playing it keep it up its awesome
ilikerogoue 11 months ago
musical gameboy
iskate953 11 months ago 49
True Story: Mother and Son friends of mine from church drove past me every morning while I was playing kalimba waiting for the bus, and they argued: "WHAT is he doing?" Son: "I think he's playing a Gameboy!"
Mother: "NO, I think its a Palm Pilot". Finally Mother asks me "WHAT are you doing every morning at the bus stop?" Mark: "PLAYING KALIMBA!"
kalimbamagic 11 months ago 26
@kalimbamagic wow...thats really cool....how much do these instruments cost and what sort of time scale are you looking at to become proficient at it?
zangipop21 10 months ago
would you believe i discovered this amazing instrument because i was reading a Giles/Xander story? awesome playing dude. funny when you start bouncing your legs when you really get into it.
WestWindReborn 11 months ago
Good !
sieluno 11 months ago
What are your thoughts on Meinl kalimbas? They're kinda my go-to company for any kind of percussion instruments, but then again, I don't have any experience with kalimbas.
GastricPigeon 11 months ago
I have not played a Meinl kalimba, but their other percussion is top notch.
I have a fight with them - they copied the Sansula on their first kalimba design, which is shameful. They have at least one other design - 9 note alternating, and I have no issue with that one.
I have written 15 books and 16 downloads for kalimbas like the Hugh Tracey Alto, but there is no instructional material for the Meinl kalimbas (except for the Sansula Book I wrote, that works for the Sansula knock off).
kalimbamagic 11 months ago
it may of been asked before but what do you have your kalimba tuned to?
NickDecarie 11 months ago
Would you recommend buying an older hugh tracey kalimba from the late 1960s? Do they lose their sound over a long time like that?
123curling321 11 months ago
This one is is from the late 1980s.
BTW, most Hugh Tracey kalimbas sold on eBay "from 1966" are not - they just have a piece of paper that was copyright 1966 - as this one did.
BUT YES, I do recommend old Hugh Tracey kalimbas - they can have problems, but most of those problems can be fixed -Mark
kalimbamagic 11 months ago
Love this african feeling
telkmx 11 months ago
Where can I get a decent kalimba and how much are they? I'm totally getting one after seeing this
GastricPigeon 11 months ago
This one is the Hugh Tracey Alto kalimba, and it is a great kalimba.
I make my living importing Hugh Tracey kalimbas and a few other brands - you can get them at the Kalimba Magic site. You can get a 10% discount using the coupon code CAT10.
There are other decent kalimbas out there, but also many not so good kalimbas. -Mark
kalimbamagic 11 months ago
I've always had one of these lying around... Never was sure how to play it. After seeing this... I'm totally going to learn...
Notebookstudios 11 months ago
I am absolutely in love with this instrument. Ive been watching videos and I just adore the way it sounds.
Best part is its so portable! I can take it with me anywhere. Im sure people will love me on the long rides to and from work on the bus with this thing. Even better, is that its an instant conversation piece! Its so unique.
Elprede 11 months ago 3
Yes, it is a good way to meet cool and interesting people, by walking around and playing. I rode the bus for 10 years while playing kalimba, and once a woman asked me to stop because "that music offends me" - I didn't know what that was about, but I did stop that day. I usually played very quietly on the bus, and much louder while walking. Glad you enjoy the kalimba! -Mark
kalimbamagic 11 months ago
@kalimbamagic whaaat?!?! how could it offend her? Its one of the most peaceful sounding instruments ive ever heard. She must be a devil worshiper to take offense to that
BizzlerTheSizzler 11 months ago 2
I saw these at the Lark in the Morning store before it closed in San Fransisco. I had NO idea they could sound so....beautiful. I'm going between a Kalimba, Ukulele, or Pocket Sax. If the first, I will definitely buy from your site! Thank you for sharing your gift of music with us.
MrWhiskersTallEars 11 months ago
im going to buy one of these because of you!
hipster bitches are gunna eat this up!
edyfreshh 11 months ago 2
I started learning this using the tabs you posted a while back, but it sounds different than you play it. On your video you seem to be using the F# on the very left a lot more often that the tabs specify to. I like the sound of your video a lot more than how the tabs sound and I was wondering if you could post a more a accurate tab.
theliberationfront6 11 months ago
Lib (I forgot your name, but remember that I just sent you a kalimba) - yeah, the video is improvised - I mean I made a mistake, and liked it, so I kept on doing it. I guess that would be a good thing to do - try to figure out exactly what I did in the video and put that into tablature. But I don't think I ever play this song the same way twice, even though there is supposedly a RIGHT way to do THIS song at least.
ALSO, listen to the version on the Catalog CD - different still. -Mark
kalimbamagic 11 months ago
kalimba sounds very nice
MsWolfshade 1 year ago
it sounds like a music box. i think that's part of why it makes people so happy. i love it.
zabbarot 1 year ago
Yes, it is like instant nostalgia for some people who had a music box when they were young.
kalimbamagic 1 year ago
this video made me play with my sansula the whole sunday afternoon and order one of those kalimbas. HEAVEN
SusiInTheSky 1 year ago
nice tune :)
jirason 1 year ago
wow that's a wonderful instrument :)
beautiful tune btw
POODYMAN2010 1 year ago
Thank you! -mark
kalimbamagic 1 year ago
wow i want one now its making me really happy ^_^
elixa4 1 year ago
I understand - playing kalimba totally makes me happy.
kalimbamagic 1 year ago 2
is thia an alto kalimba?
HelloFromNewJersey33 1 year ago
Yes, Hugh Tracey Alto Kalimba
kalimbamagic 1 year ago
amazing
delicious
tyzenha 1 year ago
this makes me want a kalimba1
tiedyekris 1 year ago
amazing!
bbchta 1 year ago
it is nice. i listen to it just for the sake of listening to music. you are very good.
recordnerd21 1 year ago
lol this fucking kicks ass! I need a kalimba...
duges420 1 year ago
Very nice done. Ive would like to get the same u played in this video. This shop you link to, do they deliver to germany too? Because im from germany and i cant find it in german stores.
Thank You
Junkf00dy 1 year ago
Very nice done. Ive would like to get the same u played in this video. This shop you link to, do they deliver to germany too? Because im from germany and i cant find it in german stores.
Thank You
Junkf00dy 1 year ago