Collection: Finger piano

Do you like music and are you particularly interested in musical instruments? There are many different models for different musical styles, and each instrument produces a specific sound that pleases your ear. With a finger piano, you can learn to play your favorite songs super quickly and easily.

You probably know many instruments, such as the guitar, the piano or the violin. Some of them are very popular and their sound is easily recognizable. But there are other instruments that are more often overlooked, even though they can produce beautiful melodies, some of which you may have heard before. It is important that you expand your knowledge of musical instruments from all over the world, so we have decided to present you with a comprehensive article about the Kalimba finger piano .

Especially if you have no experience with music, the finger piano is the perfect companion for getting started in the world of music. The small and light instrument, which can be taken anywhere, is a great joy especially for children.

Have you ever heard of this instrument or seen it being played? The finger piano is still relatively unknown, but that does not detract from its originality. If you want to know more about the instrument or have already decided to buy a finger piano , then read on.

What is a finger piano

Making music has many beneficial effects: it improves memory, strengthens personal self-esteem and even enriches social interaction. But how can you even start without any previous musical knowledge? Do you want to buy a Kalimba finger piano ? What types are there? Or would you perhaps prefer a handpan or a tongue drum instead of the Kalimba? How easy is it to learn to play the finger piano ?

Let’s first look at what a finger piano is.

The finger piano, thumb drum, kalimba , sanza, mbira, mambira, malimba kisanji or quisanche has a different name depending on the country and region it refers to, but is actually the same thing. It was originally developed on the African continent, more specifically in Zimbabwe. You can quickly learn to play with a finger piano and interpret your favorite songs.

Not only the small, portable size (see mini finger piano ), but also the extremely simple operation - simply press the metal keys with your fingernail - are decisive criteria for the popularity of the finger piano. Learning to play the finger piano is child's play. But to really understand the instrument, it is necessary to go to the continent it comes from: Africa.

In Zimbabwe, mbira is the most commonly used name for the instrument, while in Kenya kalimba is used , in Rhuanda ikembe , and in Congo likembe . In West Africa, more general names are often used for these types of idiophones, such as thumb piano or finger piano .

It is also widespread in Latin America, where it was introduced with the slaves. About 1,300 years ago, someone had the brilliant idea of ​​making the keys of the finger piano, which had previously been made of natural materials (mostly bamboo), out of metal. This gave the instruments a much longer lifespan. In addition, the sounds were louder and had a higher pitch.

In Europe, interest in the finger piano only began after 1950 , when Dr. Hugh Tracey started promoting it. Let us now take a closer look at what you should keep in mind when buying a finger piano and then learning to play it .

Buying a finger piano - what should you pay attention to?

What kind of finger piano should I buy? That depends entirely on your personal requirements, for example the songs you want to learn on the Kalimba finger piano . You should also analyze what you want to achieve with the instrument. Your financial situation and other instruments you may own, such as a drum kit, a tongue drum or a guitar that you would like to play with the Kalimba, also need to be considered.

Kalimba finger pianos come in different shapes, sizes and materials. The best Kalimba for you is the one that best suits your needs. Do you want a mini finger piano for on the go or a 21-key Kalimba? Would you like to learn to play the finger piano now or do you already have advanced music knowledge?

What to look out for:

Here are some points that can influence the purchase of a finger piano:

• The size of the finger piano or number of keys Currently, there are models on the market with 8 keys ( mini finger piano ), 10, 15, 17, 21, 24 and 32 keys. There is no doubt that with more keys you can play a wider range of scales (and therefore more songs). You will also have more finger piano notes available that you can tune individually. Children tend to prefer fewer keys, so they should start with the mini finger piano
  
  
• "Mini Finger Piano " / 8 keys - For beginners and children, the small instrument with 8 keys is a good alternative to get an impression of what a finger piano looks and sounds like. The instrument is small enough to take with you and even use as a necklace pendant! Beginners like to choose it when they buy their very first finger piano and want to learn to play the first songs on a finger piano .

• 10 to 15 Keys Kalimba - Between 10 and 15 keys, the finger piano begins to reveal its potential. Teenagers or adults who are new to music will feel comfortable with this thumb piano . However, there are only a few models with this number of keys, which could make it difficult to purchase.
  
  
• 17 to 21 keys finger piano - The instruments with 17 and 21 slats are the generic models in the world of kalimba. They are very easy to find, even on our Sonodrum website , and for good reason, because the ratio between challenge and musical potential is excellent. This number of keys is usually chosen by adults or teenagers who already have a certain approach to music.
  
  
• 24 to 32 keys Kalimba - The large number of keys/ finger piano notes and the difficulty of mastering such an instrument make it an object that should really only be used by experienced musicians.
  

Shape of the board under the keys

The two best board shapes for finger piano notes and keys are box-shaped boxes with sound holes or flat boards without sound holes.

The kalimba was originally designed without sound holes . This makes it sound much brighter and softer. In addition, the higher notes are more strongly tuned and are clearer. Therefore, it is the best design of finger piano if you often play in the higher pitches.

The box-shaped kalimba has a resonance body. As soon as you press the tines, strong resonance effects occur. Vibration-like sounds are created, especially when you press the areas around the sound holes. In summary, this finger piano is well suited for the lower to middle sound range with a powerful vibration tone.

What is the optimal material for the bottom of the finger piano?

Different types of wood are used, which have different effects and can influence the sound quality.

After numerous finger piano tests , we decided on an instrument made of high-quality coral wood and another version made of walnut wood . Here we would like to compare various other commercially available types of wood in terms of appearance and sound:

• acacia
  Sound: soft
  Colour: reddish brown colour with grain

• Okoumé
  Sound: stable, solid
  Color: Dark brown

• Pinewood
  Sound: good volume with full, clear sound.
  Colour: light wood

• Bamboo wood
  Sound: delicate, soft
  Color: light color with natural streaks

Should you choose an instrument made of wood or acrylic glass?

While wood is the traditional material used to make kalimbas, there is also a new type of instrument recently made from acrylic , a plastic polymer. These two types of finger pianos differ in appearance and design, of course, but also in many other ways to consider.

The difference is not very big, but there are some tonal changes between these two materials. Acrylic tends to produce clear and warm tones, making it perfect for lullabies and soft music for meditation. The wooden kalimba, on the other hand, has more rich tones that are well suited for catchy pop culture tunes. The finger piano notes depend on the number of keys.

Finger piano sample:

Finger piano test - how good is our finger piano

To answer this question, you just have to take a look at one of the test reports on our site and you can judge the class of the instrument and the finger piano test for yourself. Sonodrum can definitely pass every finger piano test in Germany.

1. Fabian K. about the Sonodrum Kalimba - “An incredibly well-made instrument, the sound is soft and soothing - a clear recommendation!”
2. Ralf G.: “I am a beginner and love to move rhythmically with my hands or fingers. And the sound and the device simply inspire me.” It passes all finger piano tests in Germany!
3. Sina A.: "Great product. Great in all aspects. Sonodrum Kalimba - African coral wood

These are versions with 17 or 21 keys from Sonodrum. And since a finger piano test often doesn't tell the whole truth, we assure you once again that you will be playing with a finger piano that is handcrafted from high-quality wood and guaranteed to last a long time!

And if you want to make a finger piano yourself , we'll be happy to give you some advice below.

Differences between a finger piano and a tongue drum

The tongue drum is an instrument whose "keys/tongues" are milled directly into the metal plate of the instrument. It has no wooden board and is slightly larger than the finger piano. Its design is reminiscent of a UFO.

You can make a finger piano yourself, but the tongue drum is much more difficult to make yourself. Both the finger piano and the tongue drum are sound drums, as is the handpan. And both have been subjected to tough tests, the finger piano test and the tongue drum test.

The tongue drum is also more susceptible to detuning than the finger piano, which is generally more robust. The finger piano notes are the basic notes of the 17-key instrument: F, D, B, G, Mi, C and A. The tongues of the tongue drum are numbered according to the notes they can produce, from 1 to 7 / from C to B.

Advantages of finger pianos

There are easily a dozen reasons why it is very useful and beneficial to learn to play the finger piano. Among others

• the instrument is suitable for all levels,
• it is easily accessible,
• produces a unique sound,
• has a relaxing effect,
• is used in music therapy and
• strengthens hand coordination and memory.

You can see for yourself that although the finger piano is an unknown instrument, it is worth checking out and buying to benefit from the many advantages it offers.

Product tips finger piano

You want to buy a finger piano, but you are new to this field and don't know which one to choose? How many keys should it have? Made of wood or acrylic? With or without a sound hole? There is a wide range of different models on the market.

To get started with the finger piano, you should buy a wooden instrument with a resonance hole and 17 to 21 reeds, as well as accessories. This recommendation should also be adapted to the age and musical knowledge of the future instrumentalist. Children are better off with a mini finger piano .

The following criteria should be considered when purchasing:

- The material of the instrument

- The number of keys

- The presence or absence of a resonance hole

- Useful accessories for beginners

- The budget you have available

How do you play a finger piano?

A unique feature is that the finger piano notes go from the middle (the lowest notes) to the ends (the highest notes), and the scale changes for each key. The most popular finger piano variant has 17 keys, and the tuning of these keys determines the finger piano notes you will play. As is well known, the finger piano is one of the easiest instruments to learn. There are no countless keys, and you don't have to master complex chords and scales like you do with a traditional piano. Pressing and releasing one of the keys produces a tone that will always remain the same as long as the kalimba is tuned the same way.

Learn to play the finger piano

Every time you press the same key, you will play the same musical note. With the violin or guitar, where you may place your fingers incorrectly, you may play a wrong note. With the kalimba, everything is very simple: one key corresponds to one note, and there is no risk of playing a note that is unpleasant to your ears. For this reason, any beginner can learn to play a small melody on the finger piano in just a few minutes.

The finger piano should rest in the palm of your hand and be held at your side. You can also use your outstretched index finger for additional support. Now you clamp the keys with your thumbs and play music. It couldn't be easier!

Often there are stickers included when you buy a finger piano. These stickers can be different colors or have numbers or letters on them. They are stuck onto the keys of the kalimba and, to put it briefly, they serve as a visual marker so that you can find the keys on your instrument more easily.

Sonodrum finger piano - soothing sounds and easy to play

The Sonodrum finger piano can be learned at any age. In addition, its pleasant and relaxing sounds are attractive to many people.

As for expectant parents, some of them play the finger piano regularly during pregnancy . When the baby is born, they continue to play the same melodies as when the child was in the mother's womb. The baby will therefore recognize the pieces, which will give him security as he discovers this completely new world. In addition, he will soon be able to try playing a few notes himself, since he only has to press the keys to make a sound.

For older people, the kalimba is a wonderful instrument to learn music without necessarily having to spend a lot of time on it. Even older people who no longer have the strength of their youth can interpret melodies, which would not be possible with a heavier and bulkier instrument.

The peaceful sounds of a Sonodrum finger piano are ideal for soothing the soul when you're looking for some relaxation. These sounds may not remove all your worries, but taking a break from work and pulling out a finger piano for just 15 minutes is a really great way to relax and take your mind off the thoughts and problems that are bothering you.

Conclusion Finger piano

Choosing your very first finger piano is not an easy task, given the multitude of offers on the market. Newbies are often lost and can be disappointed with their purchase because they were given bad advice in their search. But now you know what criteria are most important to determine which finger piano to choose. In addition, with all the information you have obtained, you can adapt your choice to your situation or that of the person you want to give it to without difficulty.

However, there are still a large number of kalimbas that are suitable for beginners. And you may not be sure which one is right for you. To answer these questions, the Sonodrum Shop offers finger pianos for beginners with a very good price-performance ratio. And if you want to make a finger piano yourself , there are instructions in the FAQs.

Each Sondrum finger piano comes complete with accessories. The package includes the additional finger protector, a bag for transport and storage , stickers for the keys, the instruction manual, our music book, a cloth and a hammer for regulation.

Hopefully you will now find the best finger piano for you. We hope you enjoy making music!

Finger Piano FAQs

How can I make a finger piano myself?

Want to make your own finger piano? Here are the instructions, as promised in the text:

The material:

• A wooden board of about 10x10 cm in size
• A wooden stick (e.g. a skewer)
• Hairpins in different sizes
• A hot glue gun
• A cutter

Step 1 - You can sand the board beforehand to make the surfaces and edges smooth.

Step 2 - Cut two sections from the wooden stick the same width as your board. Glue the first piece in the middle of the board. This will serve as a "support" for the bobby pins.

Step 3 - Open the bobby pins so that they form an angle of about 45°. You can use 6 bobby pins (2 small, 2 medium and 2 large) to create the thumb piano scale.

Step 4 - Mark the locations for the bobby pins at even intervals. Glue the bobby pins astride the wooden stick. Vary the sizes to create a range of different sounds. Larger keys produce a lower note, shorter keys produce a higher note. The longer keys are traditionally placed in the middle and the shorter ones towards the outside.

Step 5 - Glue the second wooden stick over the first and press it firmly so that the bobby pins stay between the two sticks. Let the glue dry for 24 hours.

Step 6 - Start playing... Gently press the keys to make them vibrate. The vibration will travel through the wooden board and create a sound.

What does a finger piano look like?

This instrument consists of a series of keys of different lengths. They are attached to a bridge at one end, while the other end is free, so that they produce sounds when pressed with the fingers on the free ends. Depending on the size of the keys, they vibrate more or less, which translates into different sounds.

How much does a finger piano cost?

A good finger piano/kalimba with 17 keys should cost around €30 to €70. A kalimba with 21 keys can cost between €60 and €200. Then there are some very unusual pieces that can cost up to €3,000.

How do you play a finger piano?

When the thumbs press certain keys, the index or middle finger of the same hand harmoniously opens or closes the holes in the body of the instrument. This combination of movements makes it possible to modulate the sounds by controlling the sound vibrations. To hit the right notes, you should practice and work on the coordination of the fingers of each hand.

What types of finger pianos are there?

There are mini finger pianos with 8 keys and finger pianos with up to 150 keys or even more (like the Array Mbiras). However, most finger pianos today have 17-21 keys.

How do you hold a finger piano?

The finger piano is held with both hands and played with your thumbs. The sound is created when you hit the metal tips of the keys with your thumbs.