Native to Central Africa, the Sanza (or "kalimba" or "thumb piano") is a melodic instrument much played by story tellers and musicians fond of entrancing sounds.

Thumb pianos exist in various forms, using different scales and modes for their key-tuning, different materials (metal, wood...) for their construction.
Usually, a sanza player holds his/her instrument with both hands, plucking the keys (metal or wooden blades) with the tip of his/her thumbs. Some models have to be laid down on a flat surface, like this particular model.

There are several types of sanzas : a "soundbox sanza" has a large opening on the upper board and two smaller soundholes on its lower part, in order to produce a distinctive "wah wah" modulation effect, while other types have their key-rack fixed to a solid soundboard (see present model), or to a tight piece of animal skin (Sanzula)

Model with an excellent sound quality and a 6.3 pick-up, made by one of the greatest sanza builder, Hugh Tracey.

The keys are pretty close to each other and allow great playing velocity.

NB: Tuning is adjustable by re-positioning the blades (keys) forwards or backwards.