CultureJuly 17, 2026

balafon

BAL-uh-fon

Definition

A West African percussion instrument similar to a xylophone, consisting of wooden bars struck with mallets, often featuring gourds underneath for resonance.

Etymology

The word comes from the Manding languages of West Africa, where 'bala' refers to the instrument and 'fon' means to speak, collectively implying the 'speaking' wooden keys.

In the news

The word is used to describe the instrumentation of the dance production, highlighting the integration of traditional West African musical elements within the performance.

Asase Yaa African American Dance Theater to headline Atlanta Dance & Drum Festival

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