What are Balafons, Koras and Djembes in Guinea?

Traditional Musical Instruments of Guinea

Traditional Musical Instruments of Guinea

Guinea is a West African nation with a rich musical heritage. Its traditional musical instruments are an important part of the culture, and they include the balafon, kora and djembe. Each of these instruments has its own unique sound and history.

The Balafon

The Balafon

The balafon is a wooden xylophone-like instrument that is made up of several wooden slats that are held in place by a wooden frame. The balafon is typically played with two wooden sticks, and it produces a bright, shimmering sound when struck. The balafon is most often used in traditional ceremonies and celebrations, and it is often accompanied by singing and dancing. It is an important part of the culture in Guinea.

The Kora

The Kora

The kora is a stringed instrument that is made from a large calabash gourd. It has 21 strings that are stretched over the gourd and held in place by leather straps. The kora is played with the fingers of the right hand and a leather pick held in the left hand. The sound it produces is like a cross between a guitar and a harp. The kora is used in many traditional ceremonies and celebrations, as well as in modern music.

The Djembe

The Djembe

The djembe is a type of drum that is made from a single piece of wood and covered with a goatskin head. It is played with the hands and produces a deep, resonant sound. The djembe is an important part of traditional music in Guinea, and it is often used to accompany singing and dancing. It is also used in modern music, and is becoming increasingly popular around the world.



Balafons, koras and djembes are traditional musical instruments of Guinea. Each one has its own unique sound and history. They are used in traditional ceremonies and celebrations, as well as in modern music. These instruments are an important part of the culture in Guinea, and they are becoming increasingly popular around the world.