Play African songs on the African kalimba (mbira nyunga nyunga) of Zimbabwe. Complete beginners are most welcome and there will be plenty of room for growth and development.
There are 14 places available in this community mbira band, and it is open to anyone interested in learning how to play this wonderful instrument. We also welcome anyone who would like to join to play djembe or shakers, with singing. All instruments will be provided.
Some of the things you will learn playing in the mbira band include:
A repertoire of folk songs from Zimbabwe, South Africa and Botswana
An understanding of the cultural context of each song
Confidence to play several variations interchangeably on each song
The ability to sing some basic vocal lines to the songs you learn
Dates: August 20, 27, September 3, 10, 17, 24
Time: 8 - 9pm
Duration: 6 weeks
Location: St Peters North Community Centre, 1 Marian Place, E2 9AX
Cost: £60 for a six week committment
Book Your Place: https://www.outsavvy.com/event/28455/play-the-mbira-6-week-african-kalimba-mbira-band-workshop-series-august-20-to-september-24
If you would like to book on to an individual class, and not the entire 6 week programme, please get in touch at info@tasteofsouthernafrica.com and we will confirm availability.
About Mbira Nyunga Nyunga
The mbira instrument belongs to an ancient family of lamellophones played by the Shona people of Zimbabwe. Traditionally, the mbira is used as a spiritual pathway connecting the living to their ancestors. However, in recent times, the mbira has been adapted into popular music by musicians such as Thomas Mapfumo and Stella Chiweshe.
We teach using a contemporary adaptation of the traditional mbira. This version is called mbira nyunga nyunga and it is a 15 key mbira that was introduced in the 1960’s in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, based on a type of kalimba played in neighbouring Mozambique. With a beautiful, soothing sound, the mbira nyunga nyunga has captivated players around the world. Famous players of the instrument include Chiwoniso Maraire and Hope Masike.
About Your Instructor
Otto Gumaelius is a London based, Botswana raised, percussionist specialising in the Kwanongoma marimba and mbira nyunga nyunga of southern Africa. He writes and performs with his band Otto & The Mutapa Calling, and teaches music from Zimbabwe, South Africa and Botswana through his cultural arts and events company, Taste of Southern Africa. He is also a published author with a 1st Class Master of Arts Honours Degree in International Management.
