How Is a Kora Made?
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Original Koras
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The kora is a west African instrument classified as harp-lute---it is played upright with the right hand, a cavity is attached to be used as a resonator. The kora is a traditional instrument and was originally made from the gourd of the Calabash plant, which was cut in half and carefully covered with stretched leather from a cow or antelope. The sticks used to support the gourd and hold the strings were originally carved from rosewood; the strings themselves were made from carefully twined antelope hide. These components can be found on the western African savanna, where the first koras were made by hand.
Additions
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The traditional kora had seven strings, which quickly moved up to 21 strings and was played or plucked by the thumbs and forefingers. The other fingers are used to support the kora in its upright position. Each string plays only one note. For a long time, players would equip the instrument with a small metal rattle known as a nyenyemo, which created a percussive buzzing sound that accompanied the string playing.
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Modern Changes
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The kora, as it spread throughout the world and entered into the modern world, went through several key changes. Antelope became increasingly scarce, and the strings were eventually replaced with fishing line or sometimes nylon; instead of using laces and ties, wooden pegs were used. In the 1970s, the metal rattle faded from use, and the 21 lines were eventually increased to 22 with an additional bass string added. Sometimes, the wooden tuning pegs are replaced with a manufactured guitar head.
Originally, the cowhide used to cover the gourd was stretched and pinned, then the instrument was left in the sun to carefully dry. This process is still used today, and the traditional gourd and skin combination is highly valued.
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