Kelei Drum

The kelei is a percussion instrument also known as kilii (Mende), n kali (Limba), keina (Loko) and more generically as a slit-log drum. It is made from a hollow log, cane or piece of bamboo, with lengthwise slits. There is much variety in size and detail. It is played with two wooden beaters. The player varies the pitch and tone of the instrument by hitting it in the middle or nearer the ends, on either side of the slits and inbetween the slits. This example was acquired from Lansana Kelfala, a well-known kelei player and member of Sierra Leone's National Dance Troupe.

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Further Information

• Type: Musical instruments
• Object: Kelei Drum
• Materials: Wood
• Culture Group: Mende
• Dimensions: 469.9mm [L]
• Production Date: Pre 1986
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: Mr. Lansana Kelfala
• Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
• Accession Number: SLNM.1986.02.02

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