Closeup August 24, 2021
The Lyres of East Africa
Otaak Band
Known by names like krar, kisara, tambur, simsimiyya and masinkob, the lyres of East Africa represent some of the world’s oldest string instruments, and Otaak Band founder Miguel Merino dives in on this week's Closeup.

Known by names like krar, kisara, tambur, simsimiyya and masinkob, the lyres of East Africa represent some of the world’s oldest string instruments. The Otaak Band is dedicated to uplifting and advancing these traditions. Otaak founder Miguel Merino tells the story with audio from his work in Egypt during the pandemic.

Produced by Miguel Merino.
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