The Sansula is Peter Hokema's 2003 invention — the marriage of the kalimba and the frame drum. The steel tines of a thumb piano are mounted on a round frame covered with a drum head, so every plucked note transfers to the skin and continues to float for a long time. By pressing the skin gently you trigger a wah-wah modulation — the signature of the Sansula.
Technical data
- Number of tones: 9
- Frame material: beech
- Kalimba material: cherry
- Dimensions: 20 x 15,5 x 6 cm
The Sansula Renaissance is the modern, design-oriented reading of the family. It is built around a larger, weather-resistant synthetic drumhead that provides both tuning stability and a striking visual finish. The Renaissance line is shaped around four elemental characters: Aqua (water), Aria (air), Ignis (fire), Terra (earth).
Specifications
- Tines: 9
- Tuning: A minor pentatonic
- Reference pitch: 440 Hz or 432 Hz (selectable)
- Frame: beech
- Head: large synthetic membrane with coloured artwork
- Diameter: approx. 22 cm
- Maker: Hokema Kalimbas (Germany)
Sound character
The larger, tighter skin gives a more open, bell-like ring compared to the Basic — notes separate more clearly and decay lasts longer. The wah-wah modulation is livelier, and the instrument feels ready for the stage.
Where to use it
Sound baths, visually rich yoga and meditation classes, composition work, and — with 432 Hz tuning — sound-therapy practice. The Renaissance is the ‘colour’ version of the Sansula family: it speaks to the eye as much as the ear.
Why this model
- 4 characters: four elemental finishes, each with its own mood.
- 432 Hz available: fits the reference pitch many sound therapists use.
- Stage-ready voice: longer decay, stronger projection.
Playing tips
The Renaissance head is less humidity-sensitive than the Deluxe calf skin — so you can take it through summer and winter alike. The elemental models (Aqua, Aria, Ignis, Terra) each have their own product page; this page carries the general family description.
About the Hokema workshop
Peter Hokema has been designing and building kalimbas since 1985 in his workshop on the Lower Rhine in Germany. Hokema Kalimbas is known for German craftsmanship, precise tuning and clean materials — every instrument is voiced by the master before it is boxed.