Dil Hai Chota Sa - Kalimba Tabs for Choti Si Asha - Easy Beginner Level

Dil Hai Chota Sa sung by Minmini from the movie Roja (1992) starring Arvind Swami, Madhoo. This motivational song is written by P. K. Mishra and music composed by A. R. Rahman. 

Watch the video below and listen to better understand how to play. Notes for kalimba learning can be found below. The image can be downloaded and saved to your device for ease of learning.

More Chromatic Kalimbas Coming Your Way!

November 2020 gave us a look some unique and beautiful chromatic kalimbas, each worthy of being owned and enjoyed for its versatility.

Since then, the Seeds 34 key chromatic kalimba finally launched and has bloomed into a much-adored choice for a number of kalimba collectors and enthusiasts alike. Not only does it sound dreamy, this chromatic kalimba is available at an affordable price making it a financially viable option for many musicians.

Based on this progression, with time, budding and advanced kalimba playing enthusiasts can expect an increase in the number of chromatic kalimba designs with equally competitive prices, thus bringing many more options to choose from.

The question is, are there more chromatic options out there? You know the answer, so let's find out.

Flat Board Kalimbas in India - Dive Deep with the Hluru Ocean Resin Kalimba

Previously, we saw a number of pretty hollow kalimbas that are easily available to order online in India. This week we look at some of the best flat board kalimba styles in India that are too gorgeous to ignore and eager to be loved.

What's so special about a flat board kalimba? The main difference between this design and a hollow one is the absence of the internal chamber that creates that deep sound that so many have fallen in love with. The flat board kalimba, on the other hand, doesn’t have any chamber or sound outlet so volume is reduced. The upside is that this flat shape creates a beautiful balanced resonance that is clear and crisp and very relaxing to for player or listener.

Hluru 21 Keys Blue Ocean Whale Beech Wood Kalimba

It is absolutely thrilling to see this Hluru kalimba in India. This is what happens when you marry wood and acrylic kalimbas-- one very esthetically pleasing piece of art! A carefully polished beech wood kalimba has smooth curved edges for that feeling of ease and comfort in your hands. The fact that there are 21 keys means that you have an even wider rage of music to play. Plus, since it's in C-major you still get to play the majority of music freely available online and offline.

If 21 keys still seems a bit daunting, you're in luck! There is also a 17 key whale and jellyfish flatboard kalimba for those interested.

Affordable Hollow Kalimbas in India - 7, 10, 17 and 21 Keys!

So you've been watching kalimba videos and you're already excited to take one on? Great idea! To my fellow desi fans asking where to buy, how to choose, prices and the kind of kalimbas available in the Indian market, this is for you.

Before moving ahead, let's understand what exactly is a hollow kalimba and what makes them so unique?

A hollow kalimba, as its name suggests, has a hollow body that creates a large chamber for the notes to resonate when the tines are plucked. You can usually recognise this type of kalimba by the circular or uniquely shaped hole on its front, just below the tines. There are also electric hollow kalimbas that allow you to connect to an amplifier. Perfect for those who are in a band or want to play around with special effects.

1. Kadence Pulse 10 Key Solid Mahogany Kalimba

Kadence is commonly known for their guitars, but did you know that they sell kalimbas too? Well, you do now. This brown kalimba from the house of Kadence, is a great sounding melodic instrument in a compact, handheld size. With its solid construction and an ergonomic shape you can experience the sound of pure joy as your fingers move through every key and resonating melody.

Fall in Love With These Gorgeous DIY Chromatic Kalimbas

Fancy building a chromatic kalimba? Take a look at these instruments for ideas!

December 2020 saw a wave of some very interesting chromatic kalimbas available for purchase that continue to gain popularity among musicians across the globe. Great looks, strong build and elegant finishing aside, the prices can be a bit steep for some.

With that in mind, a number of kalimba players decided to take things into their own hands. Quite literally in fact, by building their very own chromatic kalimbas. Some are dual-sided, while many more are dual layered chromatic kalimbas that are very unique from the ones available for purchase.

While the idea may seem both exciting and daunting, enthusiasts considering to self-build a chromatic kalimba should definitely plan their project well. 

Here is a self-survey before you decide if a DIY kalimba project is worth trying out

• Do you have experience working with wood
• Ever tried building a DIY kalimba kit before?
• Are you adept at using a tool kit?
• If not, is there someone or a workshop that can be of assistance?
• Are you musically knowledgeable enough when it comes to tuning the keys?
• Would you rather just buy a chromatic kalimba?

If the questions above inspired or deterred you in any way, no worries. You can still enjoy watching these self-made instruments made by kalimba hobbyists.