The Acacia tree grows in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world
Acacia trees and shrubs grow in tropical and subtropical areas of the world, typically found in Africa, Australia, Asia and the Americas. Its wood has a variety of uses, including manufacturing, industrial and medicinal applications. Many cultures have developed musical instruments using acacia wood, and these take a variety of forms.
Ukelele
The acacia koa, more commonly known as just koa, grows mainly on the Hawaiian islands, and mature trees can reach heights of between 5 feet and 115 feet high. Koa wood has a number of traditional uses in Hawaii, and this includes the manufacture of ukuleles. This stringed instrument has a long history in Hawaii, which dates back to the late 1800s. Over the years koa wood has become the preferred material in its manufacturing, partly for its attractive appearance, but more so because of its tonal characteristics. Logging has reduced the number of acacia koa growing in Hawaii in modern times. However, manufacturers still produce koa ukuleles, and retailers such as Bounty Music have them for sale.
Tambourine
The tambourine forms part of the percussion family of instruments, and requires shaking or striking to be played. The instrument is traditionally manufactured from wood, and this can typically include acacia wood. The attractive grain of the wood can produce a decorative instrument and its lightweight feel makes it easy to handle. Toca Percussion manufactures acacia wood tambourines, which come in 10-inch and 12-inch diameter sizes. These have an open center, although some acacia wood tambourines have a skin covering, which can be played by hand or using a percussion stick.
Xylophone
Many musicologists believe that the xylophone originated in Southeast Asia around the 14th century, although the name of the instrument derives from the Greek language. Xylon means wood, and this can be used in producing both the frame and tone bars of an instrument. Auris manufactures xylophones using acacia wood tone bars, and these can produce a strong, clear sound. The company produces a few different models, with each typically having a different number of tone bars producing different musical sounds.
African Drums
Drums form an important part of African culture and their functions have included communication, accompaniment for rituals, and providing music for dance. African drums come in a variety of styles, with some of these traditionally using acacia wood in their construction. These include the djembe, which has a goblet shaped body with a goat skin covering and the doun-doun, which has a double headed, barrel shaped body, with cow skin covered ends.
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