Mbira or Sansi is a finger-plucking instrument played in Malawi and Zimbabwe. Musicologists classify it as a lamellaphone, a member of the plucked idiophone family, traditionally used by the Shona people of Zimbabwe.
The Mbira or Sansi is made of a wooden board with metal keys attached to the top. The instrument can be mounted on a wooden resonator or mounted on a calabash. Some metal keys are made from spoon handles, bicycle spokes, or spring wire, and are played with the thumbs or a combination of thumbs and fingers.
The Mbira produces a fluid sound and is considered to have a mystic, tranquil, and enchanting sound. It is cyclical in nature, incorporating countless interwoven melodies. It can be played by itself or in groups with multiple instruments. It contains important messages, including some that guard children against bad behavior and others that condemn negative behavior.
It also communicates information about past events in the community. The Mbira/Sansi instrument acts as a 'weapon' for condemning violence and other social ills everywhere and whenever it is played.
Throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, mbiras are played, often accompanied by hoshos, and percussion instruments. It is an important instrument used at religious ceremonies, weddings, and other social gatherings. It has traditionally been passed down through apprenticeship within the family circle. Mbira/Sansi transmissions today also take place through formal coaching, and some schools teach the making and playing of the Mbira/Sansi.
Tracey's design was modeled after the mbira nyunga nyunga; this instrument was known as 'Kalimba' after an ancient predecessor of the mbira family. This modern version was commercially produced and exported from the late 1920s onwards. Tracey popularized the instrument outside of Africa.
The mbira, also known as Kalimba, became popularized in the 1960s and early 1970s. This was largely due to the efforts of musicians such as Maurice White who played with Earth, Wind, and Fire in the 1960s, as well as Thomas Mapfumo in the 1970s. Their stage show included mbira accompanied by electric guitar and bass, drum kit, and horns, as well as modern rock instruments. Zimfest, a Zimbabwean Music Festival held annually in North America offers many opportunities to learn and listen to mbira, and pass on the art.