Valiha
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The Valiha is a type of zither made from a section of bamboo. This example is from Madagascar, but musicians from South-east Asia play similar instruments. Bamboo strings cut from the length of the tube are left attached at both ends, and are raised from the body by tiny wood or gourd wedges. You hold the tube upright or under your arm, and then pluck the strings with your fingertips.
| Family |
| Strings |
| Pitch range |
| Variable. |
| Material |
| Bamboo. |
| Size |
| From 18 to 36 in (46-92 cm) long. |
| Origins |
| The valiha is played on the island of Madagascar, which is situated in the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Africa. It was brought there from Indonesia in the 9>th century. |
| Classification |
| Chordophone: an instrument that produces its sound by the vibration of strings. |
| And also... |
| In the highlands of the Merina on the island of Madagascar, the valiha was traditionally played by the local inhabitants to invoke the spirits of their ancient ancestors. It is now a mainly secular instrument. |
