The ngoni or “n’goni” is a string instrument originating in West Africa. Its body is made of wood or calabash with dried animal (often goat) skin stretched over it like a drum. This ngoni is called a “djeli ngoni” and is played by griots to perform at celebrations and other special occasions to play the traditional songs. It is diferent from the donso n’goni, a 6 string harp of the traditional hunter societies from the historic Wassoulou region of Mali.
This instrument is taught at l’École de Musique de Kirina Program in Kirina, Mali.