Musical Instruments of Uganda: Drums, Adungu, Endongo and Amadinda
Drums, harps, lyres and xylophones give Ugandan music its distinctive sound.
Uganda has a rich tradition of instruments. The engalabi is a long drum used in Buganda; the amadinda and embaire are log xylophones; the adungu is an arched harp played in northern Uganda; the endongo is a bowl lyre; and the akogo is a thumb piano. Many are used at royal events.
Hear them at Ndere Centre, and read about traditional dances and craft shopping, where small instruments are sold.
This guide is part of our Uganda people, culture and history guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Uganda tours and safari packages.
At a glance
- Drums: Engalabi and others
- Xylophones: Amadinda, embaire
- Strings: Adungu, endongo
- Thumb piano: Akogo
The Main Instruments
- Drums: used for ceremony and dance.
- Adungu: arched harp.
- Endongo: lyre.
Where to Hear Them
Live performances at Ndere, some lodges and cultural visits.
Want culture built into your safari? Tell us your interests and we will add it to your itinerary.
Related Tours, Guides and Resources
- Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
- Uganda safari packages
- Uganda travel guide
- How to book a Uganda safari
- Plan your safari with our team
Itineraries That Include This Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Uganda Safari Pages
- Traditional Dances of Uganda: Bwola, Kiganda, Ekitaguriro and More
- Uganda People, Culture and History: Kingdoms, Tribes, Dances, Crafts and Landmarks
- Crafts and Traditional Art of Uganda: Baskets, Bark Cloth and Beads
- The Ik People of Karamoja: A Small Community Near Kidepo Valley
- The Batwa People of Uganda: Forest Keepers of Bwindi and Mgahinga
Ready to Plan Your Uganda Safari?
Tell us your dates, group size and interests and our Kampala team will reply with a clear, personal itinerary.
Explore Uganda safari holidays with Ameera Africa Safaris for Uganda safari vacations, our featured tours and the latest Uganda park fees.