The most important function of mbira is as a “telephone to the spirits”, used to contact both deceased ancestors and even more ancient tribal guardians, at all-night bira (pl. mapira) ceremonies. ... Mbira is used for personal meditation, and personal prayers to the spirits.

Why do you think the mbira is typically played inside of the gourd?

The mbira is made of 22 to 28 metal keys attached to a hardwood soundboard called the gwariva, usually placed inside a large gourd to amplify the sound.

What is needed in the construction of mbira?

Instrument construction

The type of mbira shown here, of the Shona people of Zimbabwe, consists of 22 to 28 metal keys mounted on a gwariva (hardwood soundboard) made from wood of the mubvamaropa tree (Pterocarpus angolensis). ... A mutsigo (small stick) is used to wedge the mbira securely inside the deze.