The Story of Xalam
The xalam is one of West Africa’s oldest instruments and the traditional string instrument of Senegal. A living voice that has carried stories, prayers, and praise songs for centuries.
More than an instrument, the xalam is a vessel of memory. It is the sound of Senegal’s griots, the storytellers who preserved history through songs and ceremonies. For me, it became a bridge between tradition and creation, between what I learned in Dakar and what I now share globally.
The xalam, also known in Mali as the djeli ngoni, is sometimes mistaken for the kamale ngoni or donso ngoni. While those are harp-like instruments, the xalam/djeli ngoni is a Senegalese plucked lute. It is smaller in size and played more like a guitar. Its rare tone and rhythmic expression define the distinctive sound of Senegal.
Each xalam is handcrafted by master luthier Abdoulaye Traore Diop in Dakar. He builds them with age-old techniques using carved wood, goatskin, and natural materials that resonate with warmth and depth. Every instrument has its own voice, earthy, raw, and full of life.
Your Xalam
Hand-made xalam by master builder Abdoulaye Traore Diop. Each xalam is made to order, as we do not keep stock. This means that certain details may vary slightly from the photo, but the sound and quality remain the same.
The Xalam includes:
• Extra set of strings
• Piezo pickup for quick plug & play!
• Handmade soft case (optional)
FAQ
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes. We ship globally from Senegal.
What is the delivery time?
Once ordered, please allow about 2 weeks for building and 3 weeks for shipping.
Is the xalam made in Senegal?
Yes. Each xalam is handcrafted in Dakar by master builder Abdoulaye Traoré Diop.
What is the difference between a djeli ngoni and a xalam?
They are the same instrument with different regional names. In Senegal it’s called xalam; in Mali it’s djeli ngoni. The tuning style and playing approach differ between regions.
How do you tune the xalam?
After your purchase, we’ll send you clear tuning instructions and tips to help you get inspired right away.
Which music styles fit the xalam?
Its tone ranges from soft and sweet to raw and powerful. It works beautifully with Blues, World Music, Meditative music, and many more.
Is the xalam suitable for beginners?
Yes. It can be played with simple one-hand patterns for meditative, calming sounds. Anyone can enjoy strumming it.
What is the size of the xalam?
Approx. 74 cm tall, 11 cm wide, and 9 cm deep. Perfect for traveling.
Meet Ben Aylon
"Each xalam has its own soul — it plays through you, bringing stillness and softness into the present moment.
The xalam entered my life through years of study and collaboration in Senegal. What began as a journey into drumming and rhythm turned into a lifelong dialogue with the country’s music, people, and spirit. Under the guidance of master drummer Aly Ndiaye Rose and the legendary Doudou Ndiaye Rose, I learned that rhythm in Senegal is more than sound - it’s language, history, and community.
Over time, I found myself drawn to the strings of the xalam. Its voice carried the same truth as the drums but spoke in melody. Through this instrument, I discovered a new way to connect rhythm and harmony, tradition and inspiration.
Today, my work brings the xalam and Senegalese percussion to audiences around the world through performances, recordings, and collaborations with some of West Africa’s most respected artists. My goal is to honor the roots of this music while keeping it alive and evolving for new generations.
Experience the Sound
Meet Abdoulaye Traore Diop
Born in Dakar, Senegal, Abdoulaye Traore Diop is a master craftsman and one of the country’s leading makers of traditional West African instruments. His path began far from music, trained as an electrician, he discovered his gift for craftsmanship when he built his first guitar from recycled materials at the age of 15.
Over the years, Abdoulaye transformed his passion into mastery, creating koras, djembes, and xalams that blend traditional authenticity with modern refinement. His instruments are played by renowned artists including Sidiki Diabaté in Mali and members of the Cissoko family in Senegal.
Today, Abdoulaye’s workshop named 'Malika' in Dakar is known for its precision, elegance, and innovation, a place where centuries-old craft meets a new generation of sound. His collaboration with Ben Aylon on the Signature Xalam represents a shared vision: preserving the soul of West African music while reimagining its future.
Your Xalam
Hand-made xalam by master builder Abdoulaye Traore Diop. Each xalam is made to order, as we do not keep stock. This means that certain details may vary slightly from the photo, but the sound and quality remain the same.
The Xalam includes:
• Extra set of strings
• Piezo pickup for quick plug & play!
• Handmade soft case (optional)
FAQ
Do you ship worldwide?
Yes. We ship globally from Senegal.
What is the delivery time?
Once ordered, please allow about 2 weeks for building and 3 weeks for shipping.
Is the xalam made in Senegal?
Yes. Each xalam is handcrafted in Dakar by master builder Abdoulaye Traoré Diop.
What is the difference between a djeli ngoni and a xalam?
They are the same instrument with different regional names. In Senegal it’s called xalam; in Mali it’s djeli ngoni. The tuning style and playing approach differ between regions.
How do you tune the xalam?
After your purchase, we’ll send you clear tuning instructions and tips to help you get inspired right away.
Which music styles fit the xalam?
Its tone ranges from soft and sweet to raw and powerful. It works beautifully with Blues, World Music, Meditative music, and many more.
Is the xalam suitable for beginners?
Yes. It can be played with simple one-hand patterns for meditative, calming sounds. Anyone can enjoy strumming it.
What is the size of the xalam?
Approx. 74 cm tall, 11 cm wide, and 9 cm deep. Perfect for traveling.