Bala or turukabala (in the Bamanan language) large-five-tone xylophone Béléko, Dioïla circle (Ethnic group: Bamanan, Senufo, Bwa) wood, bamboo, gourd, leather, spider cocoon Length: 119 cm Width : 63,5 cm National Museum of Mali, Mali

The balaba, a five-tone or pentaphonic xylophone is a traditional musical instrument par excellence. It is made of bamboo, rubber, gourds, skins and spider webs.

It is played on occasions such as weddings, baptisms and circumcision ceremonies, and for work in the fields and worship.

I learned to play this instrument in church. When I was attending primary school, I used to skip classes to go and play the bala, which I adore.


Instrument made by Sekou Diallo in 1982.