How do you maintain and tune your kalimba so that it's always in perfect working order?

Have you recently purchased a kalimba and would like to learn how to maintain and tune your instrument to keep its high quality performance for as long as possible? You've come to the right place, because today we're offering you a guide to learning how to properly maintain and tune your kalimba!

Why maintain your kalimba?

It is important to maintain your kalimba to preserve its high quality performance over the long term. Maintenance is essential to prolong the life of your instrument and enable you to enjoy clear, harmonious music. By taking good care of your kalimba, you'll be able to develop your playing and your music to its very best.

How to maintain and tune your kalimba?

There are a few simple steps to follow to ensure your kalimba has a long and happy life!

Regular cleaning

To start with, clean your kalimba with a soft damp cloth and a small washcloth. Make sure all notes are free of dust and other dirt that may have accumulated on your instrument. You can also use a special instrument degreaser to clean metal parts. Finally, make sure your instrument is thoroughly clean before storing it in its packaging or case to protect it from damage.

Stop adjustment

Make sure that the hammers on your kalimba are properly adjusted so that they strike the notes with the right pressure and produce the right sound. Correctly adjusted stops are essential to keep your kalimba in perfect working order and ensure optimum instrument performance. If you notice any discordant sounds when you play, please check the stops and adjust them if necessary.

Note setting

One of the most important factors in the quality of your kalimba is the setting of its notes. If your notes are missing or over-emphasized, you'll first want to check the mids and stops. Next, you'll want to check the string play by changing string types and/or string tension to find the best sound for the instrument. If necessary, call in a qualified technician for advice and to make sure your kalimba is playing optimally.

Conclusion

Maintaining and tuning your kalimba is an important task in maintaining its quality of sound and performance. Fortunately, cleaning and tuning are not complicated tasks, and they are essential to ensure you enjoy the instrument for many years to come. Don't hesitate to consult specialized technicians for advice specific to your instrument, to ensure optimum performance. Happy reading!