Valiha
Valiha
Stringed musical instrument
The valiha is a tube zither from Madagascar made from a species of local bamboo; it is considered the "national instrument" of Madagascar.[1] The term is also used to describe a number of related zithers of differing shapes and materials.[2]
The instrument has been held in high regard among the Malagasy particularly in the Merina rule over the island that having long fingernails ideal for plucking its strings were marks "distinguishing the aristocracy from the labourers".[3][4] Aside from recreational music, the valiha is also used for ritual music to summon spirits.[5]
It is commonly believed in Madagascar that the valiha is "inherited from King David", as part of a larger origin myth of Jewish provenance of Malagasy people.[6]