what were the preferred instruments played during slavery by the slaves?

Answer 1

I don't know if it were "preferred," but by far the most common instrument was voice. That's why so many of the old "***** spirituals" can be sung acappella.

As others have indicated, make-shift drums were often used to keep a beat. Occasionally hand-made flutes were used. And, rarely, some kind of stringed instrument that resembled a banjo.

Answer 2

The banjo is a stringed instrument of African American origin, early or original examples sometimes being called the "gourd banjo". One very compelling African banjo predecessor is called the "Akonting." It is a spike folk lute played by the Jola tribe of Senegambia. The name "banjo" is commonly thought to be derived from the Kimbundu term mbanza. Some etymologists derive it from a dialectal pronunciation of "bandore", though recent research suggests that it may come from a Senegambian term for the bamboo stick used for the instrument's neck.

The modern banjo comes in a variety of different forms, including four- (plectrum and tenor banjos) and five-string versions. A six-string version, tuned and played similar to a guitar is gaining popularity. In almost all of its forms the banjo's playing is characterised by a fast strumming or arpeggiated right hand, although there are many different playing styles.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banjo

Answer 3

They used hands, feet, and anything they could use to make the beat. But the drum was of the true first instrument and the harmonica.

Answer 4

The Harmonica.

Answer 5

I have seen pictures with banjos and hand carved flutes.

Answer 6

drums