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 is damaged and has a hole in the top.

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Further Information

• Type: Musical instruments
• Object: Kelei Drum
• Materials: Wood
• Culture Group: Mende
• Dimensions: 790mm [H]
• Production Date: Pre 2010
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: Unknown
• Museum: Sierra Leone National Museum
• Accession Number: SLNM.2010.034.03

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