The Newlam kalimba, a gift from a loving daughter to her solitary mother, has become a gift to myself—a means of exploring the edges of my own creativity and the bounds of my world. As I look to the future, I see it not with trepidation but with excitement, filled with the possibilities of new tunes to learn, new memories to create, and new silences to fill with music.

A Gift That Resonated

Christmas of 2022 was unlike any other in my life. My flat, typically quiet save for the soft purring of my cat, Molly, was infused with the subtle scent of pine from the small Christmas tree in the corner and the aroma of mulled wine on the stove. My daughter, Emily, who knows my penchant for unique, meaningful gifts, presented me with a beautifully wrapped package that Christmas Eve. Inside was a Newlam kalimba, its wooden surface smooth and inviting, the tines shining under the fairy lights. Little did I know, this small musical instrument was about to redefine my daily routine and fill my solitary existence with a new form of expression.

The Early Notes of Companionship

Living alone in an apartment in the bustling heart of London can be as isolating as it is liberating. With Emily living abroad and most of my days spent in the quiet company of Molly, the kalimba became more than just a pastime; it became a companion. The initial curiosity of plucking its tines soon turned into a daily ritual. Each note was a step away from loneliness, a gentle reminder that music could fill even the silent gaps of an empty flat.

The kalimba was easy to learn, which was perfect for me. Years of knitting and reading had honed my patience, but my fingers were not as nimble as they once were. Yet, this instrument, with its forgiving nature, allowed me to create music that was both soothing and joyful. Molly, ever the critic, took to sitting beside me on the sofa, her ears twitching with every note, her presence a quiet approval of this new endeavour.

The Melodic Routine

As the weeks turned into months, my interaction with the kalimba became a cherished part of my routine. Mornings would start with a cup of tea and the kalimba by the kitchen window, the early light casting shadows over the music sheets I gradually filled with my compositions. The simplicity of the instrument was deceptive; it held within it a depth of sound that could convey a spectrum of emotions—from the lilting joy of a sunny day to the introspective calm of a rainy afternoon.

Television had never been much of a sanctuary for me. My eyes would tire easily, the flickering screens leaving me more exhausted than entertained. The kalimba filled this leisure gap beautifully. Instead of sitting passively in front of the screen, I could interact with melodies, crafting pieces that reflected my mood and thoughts. It was during these moments of musical creation that I felt most content, most connected to the world beyond my four walls.

Integration into Daily Life

The kalimba didn’t just alter my personal time; it influenced my social interactions as well. With each tune I mastered, my confidence grew, prompting me to share my music. I began recording small pieces and sending them to Emily. Our conversations, once filled with the usual updates about weather and health, now brimmed with discussions about music theory, rhythm, and melody. The kalimba bridged the physical distance between us, its music a shared language that deepened our connection.

Occasionally, I would play for friends over video calls. Their delight and encouragement fuelled my passion further. The kalimba was no longer just an instrument; it was a tool of engagement, a way to maintain and enhance my relationships despite the physical solitude of my living situation.

The Challenges and Triumphs

Learning any instrument comes with its set of challenges, and the kalimba was no exception. There were days when the melodies jumbled, the tines stubborn under my less-than-perfect touch. Frustration would build, especially when a particular tune eluded my grasp. However, the compact size and gentle tone of the kalimba made perseverance less daunting. Unlike a piano or guitar, I could easily pick it up, try a few notes, and put it down again, allowing for a learning pace that matched my lifestyle.

The triumphs, when they came, were sweet. Completing a complex piece brought a sense of accomplishment that was both personal and profound. It was during a particularly challenging composition that I realized how far I had come—not just in my ability to play, but in my willingness to challenge myself, to step beyond the familiar comfort of my daily routines.

The Kalimba and Mental Health

The impact of the kalimba extended beyond the musical into the realms of mental well-being. The act of focusing on melodies and rhythms acted as a form of meditation, clearing my mind of the clutter of daily worries and stresses. The vibrations of the tines under my fingertips were tactile reminders of the present moment, grounding me in the 'now' with every note played.

This musical form of mindfulness was particularly poignant during times of anxiety or loneliness. The kalimba offered a respite, a safe space where I could channel my emotions into something beautiful and tangible. It became a therapeutic tool, its melodies a soothing balm for the rough days and a source of joy in the better ones.

Looking Ahead

Two years have passed since I first received my Newlam kalimba, and it remains one of my most cherished possessions. It sits proudly on the living room shelf when not in use, a constant invitation to engage with music and creativity. Looking ahead, I plan to explore more complex compositions and perhaps even join a local music group. The kalimba has not only filled the gaps left by my limited screen time but has enriched my life in ways I never anticipated.

More Than Just Music

Reflecting on the past two years with the kalimba, I realize that this small instrument has given me much more than just a way to pass the time. It has provided companionship, strengthened bonds with loved ones, enhanced my mental health, and broadened my social interactions. It has transformed the quiet of my apartment into a space vibrant with potential and melody. In every pluck of the kalimba’s tines, I find a piece of joy, a note of life, a harmony that resonates with my soul. The journey has been not just about music, but about rediscovering the rhythms of my own life and redefining what it means to live fully, one note at a time.

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Updated:

I reached out to Sofia, a member of the Newlam team, and requested her to craft 15 bespoke kalimbas tailored to my personal style—purple with floral embellishments—as I wished to share the delightful, soothing, and splendid sound with others.

Initially, Sofia was receptive, eager to assist any customer with their creative visions. Regrettably, the following day she informed me that the costs of customisation were prohibitively high for their team to manage. I hold no grievances against them, for they have crafted an inspiring kalimba.

I mentioned to Sofia that should any new styles be considered in the future, they might keep my design in mind.

I expressed my willingness to purchase 15 units and to authorise their distribution to individuals facing circumstances similar to my own, anywhere around the globe.