HOKEMA - Sansula Basic

The sansula - invention patented by HOKEMA - is a further development of the kalimba (also called sanza or mbira), which originated in southern Africa. Kalimbas are fluted instruments that are pinched with the thumbs or fingers. In Africa, they are found in countless forms and designs, in which the vibration of the blades is amplified in different ways (e.g. on a resonance box, a hollow body such as a calabash or simply a solid piece of wood).

In the case of the sansula, the vibration of the blades is first "stored" in a piece of wood (the table or board) which then transmits it to a sound membrane. In this way, the sound is audible for much longer than with other amplification methods. Supported by the tuning - the octaves are close to each other and the result is a wonderful, smooth, richly harmonic sound that can be produced with great ease.

As with the Hokema Kalimbas, the Sansula is finished to a high standard. The body is made of beech and the top of cherry. The stainless steel slats are curved at the end for better playing comfort. They are fairly close together, allowing the musician to play in a limited space with the short blades (2nd, 4th, 6th and 8th) higher than the long ones. This arrangement makes it possible to slide from one blade to the other very easily and optimises the playing technique considerably.

The very thin cellulose skin is stretched and held in place by a rubber ring. The wah-wah effect is very pronounced because the musician will lift the whole body. A unique and innovative creation in the beautiful world of Kalimbas... a real little wonder!

The custom made Sansula carrying and protection case is highly recommended to protect the skin of the Sansula and will allow you to bring your instrument with you everywhere. Add the cover in the drop-down menu above the price and get a 3€ discount.