Workshop List

Butsu

"Butsu" is a great dance song that every marimba band should know! This is my basic arrangement of this traditional song and it's easy enough for beginners to get their hands on! Non-beginners are welcome as well, and are requested to participate from the perspective of an advanced beginner.

Pfumvu paRuzevha

Teachers: Amy Stewart McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

This traditional song, popularized by Thomas Mapfumo, was one of the first songs Kutandara played. Still wildly popular at Kutandara Center, this is the arrangement we teach to new students. The song is mbira-style, but only has two (instead of four) phrases, making it accessible even to beginners! True beginners only, please.

Ndau Dance on Marimba

Teachers: Jesse Larson

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

Arrangement of a traditional Ndau piece with complex rhythmically-interlocking parts.

Makudo

Teachers: Carla Starck

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba

This traditional mbira piece means "Baboons" in Shona. Arranged for marimba by Randy McIntosh, who learned it on mbira from Chris Berry. Each marimba part is fairly easy to learn with quickly repeating patterns, including kushaura and kutsinhira. The fun and the challenge are fitting the parts together when the polyrhythms become obvious and the groove kicks in! More advanced students are welcome to register and participate in a manner considerate of those less experienced. Sample two recordings at www.kutandara.com.

Osano

Teachers: Carla Starck

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba

This Alport Mhlanga composition has four basic parts of interlocking, catchy rhythms: lead, tenor, baritone and bass. We'll add soprano and alto harmonies to play along with the syncopated lead part, and include on-beat chords to play opposite the off-beat tenor part, making this piece great for a full ensemble. Advanced beginners only please!

Ngosi

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Teens, Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

We will learn a very different song called "Ngosi" which has a unique meter in 9.

Kari Muchipfuwa

Teachers: Daniel Lockley

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Mbira

This is a song from the matepe repertoire that could be considered a cousin of songs like "Nyamaropa," "Mahororo," "Karigamombe," etc., especially when performed on marimba. Beyond a similar chord progression, however, this is a unique song with complex parts and rhythms specific to matepe music.

Tinodanana

Teachers: Daniel Lockley

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Children's Classes, Workshops for Teachers

After the success of teaching Thomas Mapfumo's "Serevende" last year, I arranged another one of his nearly infinite catalogue of awesome songs. This arrangement is a little bit involved but still falls squarely in the intermediate camp. Students can expect such wonders as a two-part lead where each person plays half of the full melody and some pretty funky cross-rhythms.

Anyone Can Sing with Mbira (and Marimba)

Teachers: Erica Azim

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Singing

Anyone can sing with mbira by learning to listen to simple lines in the music and singing them with Shona-style vocables. We'll try this out with several pieces and you can make requests.

Mannenburg

Teachers: Eric Miller

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba

"Mannenburg" is a jazz song written by South African pianist, Abdullah Ibrahim. It's a laid back, groovy tune that is really enjoyable to play. Parts range from advanced beginner to intermediate. Students above these levels may register but are requested to participate in a manner considerate of those less experienced.

Chachimurenga!

Teachers: Daniel Lockley

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

This is a marimba arrangement of one of Stella Chiweshe's most popular songs about the Zimbabwean struggle for independence. In typical Zimbabwean style, despite its somber content, it is a fun, high-energy dance song that sounds perfect on marimbas! This is a great song to start working on the interlocking rhythms that contribute to that unique quality so much Zimbabwean music has, without being too challenged. It's also a great reminder that marimba ensemble music shares much of its sound with other styles of music from Zimbabwe.

Mazai

Teachers: Eric Miller

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

Back by popular demand, this is an original composition by Eric Miller that has fun parts and an interesting arrangement. "Mazai" means "eggs".

Nyungwe

Teachers: Jaiaen Beck

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba

Learn "Nyungwe," an original call-and-response piece by Dumi Maraire, and a great way to start learning the marimba. We'll explore how the parts fit together while being part of the ensemble. We will study all the parts, the hosho pattern, and if time allows, the drumming. "Nyungwe" is an easy introduction to marimba playing.

Kgopotso Means Remembrance

Teachers: Jaiaen Beck

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba

"Kgopotso" is a Setswana word and is a fun song to learn marimba basics. This song was written by Godfrey Ntatisi, arranged by Dumi Maraire, and taught for many years under the name of "Chiradza I." We'll study all the parts, the hosho pattern, and if time allows, drumming. Our goal is to relax and enjoy the ensemble experience while learning many skills.

Chipindura on Marimba

Teachers: Kurai Blessing Mubaiwa

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Mbira

"Chipindura" is a traditional mbira song from the Shona people. It is a song I would consider a tough one to break down all of its kushaura (lead) and kutsinhira (harmonizing) parts in order to bring it to a marimba orchestra. This is my own adaptation of "Chipindura" on marimba.

Contemporary Arrangement on Marimba

Teachers: Jeff Brahe

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble

Whether you start with a traditional song or a pop song on the radio, this class will teach you how to channel it through your own lens into something that others can enjoy. We will discuss several levels of learning, before delving into different styles and approaches to arranging music for marimba band. The instructors believe that marimba music is forever evolving. Our purpose is to celebrate that evolution, which occurs each time a new student learns to play, as that student incorporates their own story into what they have been taught.

Butsu

Teachers: Amy Stewart McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba

"Butsu" is a great dance song that every marimba band should know! This is my basic arrangement of this traditional song and it's easy enough for beginners to get their hands on! Non-beginners are welcome as well, and are requested to participate from the perspective of an advanced beginner.

Mavambo

Teachers: Jesse Larson

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba

Though the name means "Beginning," this is definitely not a song for inexperienced marimba players. With a slower tempo and a slightly haunting sound, rhythmical intricacy and dynamics are definitely the main focus of this piece.

Twiza

Teachers: Jesse Larson

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba

"Twiza" is is a great song to learn for those who are just starting out on marimba. Though it is extremely simple, it's an incredibly fun and upbeat song to play. Two of the main parts are on-beat and off-beat, so we will spend a portion of the class working on understanding those rhythms. True beginners only, please.

Chemutengure (Wagon Driver)

Teachers: MyLinda King

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba

MyLinda’s arrangement is an amalgamation of several versions and inspirations learned over the last 25 years. Primary influences are Ephat Mujuru, Alport Mhlanga and Stella Chiweshe. Chemutengure is said to imitate the sound of the wagon wheels, and this version starts slowly and laboriously as the oxen free the wagon from the mud and it gains speed. The parts can be adapted to the most beginning student to the intermediate student. MyLinda is very experienced mixing different levels of students. Simple vocals will be taught if there is time.

Chipembere on Marimba

Teachers: Kurai Blessing Mubaiwa

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Mbira

"Chipembere" is a traditional Shona mbira piece. Having been exposed to various families' ways of playing mbira, I am always quite amazed by how mbira pieces sound on marimba ensembles. This will be my own way of playing "Chipembere" on marimba, yet with a dominant influence from Garikayi Tirikoti's preferred mbira orchestra style.

Chapungu

Teachers: Jesse Larson

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

Maggie Jackson originally wrote this song for her parents' marimba class in Boulder, CO. Unlike many marimba songs, this one has a light and airy feel to it, which is fitting, as "Chapungu" means eagle. Going along with its more delicate sound, this song focuses on trickier, more spacious rhythms, which fit together beautifully to create the piece.

Shona Rhythms 101: Tsaba

Teachers: Kite Giedraitis

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Drumming, Hosho

This workshop will open up your ears to better hear syncopated rhythms and how they relate to the underlying beat, providing tools to help you and your band get tighter. The session includes a brief hosho workshop. It is not a lecture and will be very participatory, with lots of fun, mind-expanding exercises. We will focus on duple-time music (songs with tsaba hosho). Students above advanced beginning level also welcome in this class.

How to Play Less Hurt

Teachers: John O’Brien

Cost: $11.25

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Marimba, Workshops for Teachers

This workshop intends to address many of the ailments to which marimba players are subject and to offer advice on how to deal with them. We will discuss and review the anatomy of the upper extremities, the physiology of mallet playing and some of the diagnoses and syndromes common to marimba playing. With this in mind we will review self-assessment of technique, identification of weak muscles and range of motion, and specific corrective exercises. The goal will be learning how to modify practice and performance in order to minimize downtime. With homage to Janet Horvath, I will provide a list of resources with advice on self-treatment and when to seek help from a professional (in what profession) as well as what to avoid.

Munongovhaira

Teachers: Patience Musandirire

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

"Munongovhaira" means "You are full of yourself." The song features a good share of polyphonic melody lines on the sopranos whilst the tenors do polyrhythmic chords and supporting short melody lines. A wholly rich musical art manned with interlocking musical movements. Genre: Zimbabwean Traditions of the Vazezuru People. Watch my teen band in Botswana trying it out here: http://youtu.be/bUsPN_B3YhI

Njuzu yaAmbuya Stella Chiweshe

Teachers: Patience Musandirire

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

My recreation of Ambuya Stella Chiweshe's "Njuzu" ("A Water Healing Spirit"). A family of rich tenor chords gives form and rhythmic structure to this composition. The mother soprano gets into an adventure of a call melody and keeps singing with a dose of very fast chord movement to answer and compliment the call melody. Other short improvised melodies come into play from the supporting sopranos to strengthen this composition. This is a roller coaster ride of an arrangement, and if we do it well, we will definitely enjoy it. Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W76fK8wDGQY

Kamba

Teachers: Mandy Walker-LaFollette

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Teens, Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba

"Kamba" was written and arranged by instructor Mandy Walker-LaFollette and Wanda Walker. This is a simpler version than the original; an mp3 of the full arrangement can be found at marimbaworks.com/mandy. In the Shona language of Zimbabwe, "Kamba" means "Tortoise." The name is meant to resemble how Kamba the tortoise thinks of herself with every thoughtful step.

New Day/Tinotenda

Teachers: Mary Ellen Garrett

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Singing

A fun and lively marimba song I composed that plays around with chord structures, has a shared running lead, and ends with simple singing, thanking our teachers.

Mupanda

Teachers: Mandy Walker-LaFollette

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

The instructor composed this song to imitate the sound of rain falling through leaves to the ground. This expressive arrangement has a minor tone and offers levels of varying intricacy. An mp3 can be heard at marimbaworks.com/mandy.

Pamuromo

Teachers: Mandy Walker-LaFollette

Cost: $37.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

I will teach my marimba arrangment of "Pamuromo PaHaruna," as heard on Chiwoniso Maraire’s album, Rebel Woman. I was particularly drawn to this song and decided to make an arrangement for seven marimbas plus hosho, in the key of C. The arrangement includes a back-and-forth between two sets of instruments, similar to the structure of the song on Chiwoniso’s album.

Marimba Fundamentals for Learning and Improvisation

Teachers: Mandla Kaunda

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Drumming

This class will focus on how to really play the marimba, coming from two teachers who have played since childhood, one in Zimbabwe and one in the U.S. Topics will include sticking techniques, gaining stamina and agility and how to get the best sound. Then we'll move on to WHAT to play. This will include ways of building on what you know already by learning to do variations and beginning to improvise. Special emphasis will be given to rhythm, with concepts from Chris Berry's FAR system (Fundamentals of African Rhythm).

Chaminuka ndi Mambo

Teachers: Patience Musandirire

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

"Chaminuka ndi Mambo" ("Chaminuka is King"): Another war spirit medium who was an advocate of peace and compassion, Chaminuka sits up there with other spiritual names like Nehanda and Kaguvi. This song takes the musical line of "Mapadza" but comes in two movements performed separately but constantly joined, where one leads to another interchangeably. This is my own arrangement of "Chaminuka ndi Mambo" in the Zimbabwean traditional rhythm. It brings the art and science of interchanging musical rhythm and the skill to observe different time signatures all packed in one composition. We shall sing it as well.

Zendekaiwa

Teachers: Patrick Latimer

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba

"Zendekaiwa" is a classic upbeat Dumi Maraire composition and my favorite encore song, that many people know and everyone enjoys playing. Non-beginners are requested to participate from the perspective of a beginner, and hold any more advanced questions until the end of the workshop.

Mapadza (Hoes)

Teachers: Patience Musandirire

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba

"Mapadza" ("Hoes"), Patience's traditonal polyrhythmic rendition. This was once a musical art composed to encourage plowing for subsistence farming in the rural areas of the vaZezuru people of Zimbabwe. This is a very old song, and my touch with traditional polyrhythmic movements makes this composition a brand new creation of an art that was once the trademark to encourage work in the community. It brings out the skills to understand and perceive Zimbabwean traditonal rhythm in many ways, due to its compositional sructure and arrangement. We are also going to sing it.

Isu Tauya Pano

Teachers: Patrick Latimer

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba

"Isu Tauya Pano" is a traditional Shona children's song arranged for marimba by Dumisani Maraire and it is a blast. It is energetic and upbeat and a classic among the marimba community. True beginners only please.

Intensive: Mhondoro (INTENSIVE)

Teachers: Randy McIntosh

Cost: $60.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble

This version of "Mhondoro" was inspired by many of the Zimbabwean marimba teachers that taught at Kutandara Center in Boulder over the last several years: Bongo Love, Mawungira eNharira, Sheasby Matiure, Tendai Muparutsa and Zivanai Masango. This marimba arrangement carries with it the signature McIntosh style of being grounded in tradition, with a complex arrangement and cool breaks over the top!

Intensive: Goremupindu (INTENSIVE)

Teachers: Randy McIntosh

Cost: $60.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble

Based on "Bukatiende"/"Mukatiende" mbira parts taught to the instructor by Ambuya Beauler Dyoko and Cosmas Magaya, "Goremupindu" ("Year of Changes") is an exciting and inspiring marimba arrangement by McIntosh. The pace of the class and the depth of coverage of the song will be determined by the experience and abilities of the students; the full piece is quite a large body of work!

Arranging Zimbabwean Music for Marimba Ensembles

Teachers: Randy McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

Have you always wondered how marimba players arrange songs? Do you live far from any teachers and wish you could come up with your own marimba parts to Zimbabwean pop tunes you love? In this workshop you'll discuss several approaches to creating your own arrangements and then, as a group, take a song and begin the process!

Manhanga

Teachers: Sheree Seretse

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba

"Manhanga" is a Zimbabwean marimba piece based on a wedding song whose literal meaning is "sweet pumpkins." This celebratory song has an infectious rhythm and melody that is conducive to the beginning learning experience. This version of "Manhanga" is based on the teachings of Dumisani Maraire and Michael Sibanda. Non-beginners in this class wil be requested to take an observer's role at first, until it is time to play the song.

Introduction to Mbira-style Marimba

Teachers: Wanda Walker

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba

This workshop offers a fundamental introduction to mbira-style marimba, playing parts in the kushaura and kutsinhira positions (one line trailing a pulse behind another, or two lines forming a 6-against-4 pattern with each other) and tips for being comfortable with the beat in either position. (Intermediate players are also encouraged to enroll to learn or practice this valuable skill. More complex parts can be made available.) Arranged in the key of G; use of F#s is optional. Wanda's full arrangement of "Nhimutimu" from which these lines are taken is based on the mbira dzavadzimu parts to "Nhimutimu" as taught by Cosmas Magaya and can be heard through a link on this web page: http://www.marimbaworks.com/WWalker/

Mutengeni

Teachers: Wanda Walker

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Singing

Wanda learned this traditional mbira song from Chartwell Dutiro (found on the CD Spirit Talk Mbira / Ndonga Mahwe). She arranged it for marimba with her band, Jenaguru. The lyrics are “Kashiri kamambo, Kangaka chamhedza; Nhengeni / Mutengeni,” which means “The small bird of the king might swallow the nhengeni, the fruit of the mutengeni tree.” Jenaguru members are happy to have added this very danceable song to their set list. Key of G, ionian mode (uses F#s). If time, basic singing lines will be taught. You may listen to this arrangement through a link on this web page: http://www.marimbaworks.com/WWalker/

Chigwaya

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Singing, Hosho

This is a beautiful piece from Zimbabwe about "chigwaya," or bream fish. It is an important piece for "njuzu," or water spirit, ceremonies. Come learn a great arrangement that simply conveys the beauty and funky rhythmic nature of this piece. You will also learn the main singing lines that accompany the song. Students above advanced beginning level may register but are requested to participate in a manner considerate of those less experienced.

Hosho for Beginners

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Hosho, Workshops for Teachers

Hosho gourd rattles are our favorite instruments! These provide the main pulse(s!), groove and means for dancing to so much great mbira and marimba music. Good hosho players are hard to come by and mean the world to any marimba band or mbira group. We would like to help you lay solid foundations on your path towards hosho proficiency! We will also be playing a little marimba during this workshop so you can test out your new skills in context.

Nyarara Baba: a Mhande song on Marimba

Teachers: Wanda Walker

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Singing, Drumming, Workshops for Teachers

First we will learn to play the basic Mhande drum pattern and some variations as played in Eugene, Oregon. We'll layer in the hosho, clapping and clave patterns. Next we'll learn the singing lines to "Nyarara Baba," which I learned from Jennifer Kyker (as "Ndoenda Zvangu Kumandega"). We'll then learn the marimba arrangement by Mandy Walker-LaFollette. Mhande is a dance form with singing and drumming, used to pray for rain and bless seeds before planting.

Advanced Marimba with Singing

Teachers: Zivanai Masango

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Singing, Language, Culture

The workshop tackles Thomas Mapfumo's "Chauya Chiruzevha." The objective is to have as many players as possible sing while they play. Singers who do not play marimba are also welcome to this workshop.

Mbira Dance

Teachers: “Samaita” Vitalis Wilbert Botsa

Cost: $15.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira, Dance

In Zimbabwe, people dance to mbira music all night long. There is no age limit; Samaita's mother is still dancing at age 91! Learn some village dance steps and then do them at the Zimfest evening concerts.

Mharapara Matende

Teachers: “Samaita” Vitalis Wilbert Botsa

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Mbira

A favorite song of Samaita's 91-year old mother, "Mharapara Matende" tells the antelope to be careful of the lion hunting it (also symbolic of human situations). This song is played for mashave ekuvhima, the hunting spirits (singular: shave rekuvhima). These are the spirits that help you to find food/sustenance for yourself and your family. Nowadays, they could help you to find a good job. Samaita has put this song to mbira and will teach a version of that to you. It is suggested to also take the singing workshop to learn the song. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWLgB3Csqmg

Marenje Samaita Style

Teachers: “Samaita” Vitalis Wilbert Botsa

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira

Samaita says “Marenje" means “Desert", and is played to bring rain. We need rain this year, so learn an oh, SO beautiful style of Marenje that is quite different from the usual one. You can hear a little of it on this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxwcqJWhSwg, but he will teach it at an intermediate level. Advanced players are welcome to take an additional private lesson to get more of his beautiful variations.

Dande Samaita Style

Teachers: “Samaita” Vitalis Wilbert Botsa

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira

Learn to play Samaita's style of the classic mbira piece "Dande" on mavembe (gandanga) tuning. Dande is an area in northern Zimbabwe where there are many important spirits. You can hear one of Samaita's "Dande" styles here: http://www.mbira.org/audio/tracks/mbira.org-3475-2.mp3

Nhema Musasa Kushaura Samaita Style

Teachers: “Samaita” Vitalis Wilbert Botsa

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira

"Nhema Musasa" is one of Samaita's favorite songs. He has many wild and beautiful variations for it and will share some of them with you. Samaita prefers to play complex kushaura parts, so the variations will be kushaura, but likely also great for solo playing. You MUST already know how to play "Nhema musasa" to take this workshop, which will be taught at an intermediate level.

Story Telling

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $15.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira, Language, Culture, Children's Classes, Workshops for Teachers

Come learn and enjoy traditional stories that include call and response singing during the story.

Marenje

Teachers: Chaka Mhembere

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Mbira

Chaka will teach a kushaura part to "Marenje," a popular piece commonly played in mavembe (gandanga) tuning. If time allows, singing will be included. Chaka will be assisted in teaching this workshop by members of Mudzidzi Mbira.

Machena

Teachers: Chaka Mhembere

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira

"Machena" (my white dog, a hunting dog) is one of Chaka's favorite songs to play on mbira. This workshop will cover two or three parts, as time allows. Bring your Magaya tuning mbira if you have one. Chaka will be assisted in teaching this workshop by members of Mudzidzi Mbira.

Bukatiende Kutsinhira

Teachers: Chaka Mhembere

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira

Chaka will teach a kutsinhira for "Bukatiende." Bring your Magaya tuning mbira if you have one. Chaka will be assisted in teaching this workshop by members of Mudzidzi Mbira.

Kari Muchipfuwa

Teachers: Daniel Lockley

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Mbira

This is a song from the matepe repertoire that could be considered a cousin of songs like "Nyamaropa," "Mahororo," "Karigamombe," etc., especially when performed on marimba. Beyond a similar chord progression, however, this is a unique song with complex parts and rhythms specific to matepe music.

Nyamaropa

Teachers: Erica Azim

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Mbira

One of the most ancient mbira pieces, this mbira classic is very deep. The style of "Nyamaropa" will be one I learned from Mondreck Muchena in 1974.

Chipembere on Mavembe (Gandanga) Tuning

Teachers: Erica Azim

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Mbira

Have you played nyamaropa tuning mbira, but would like to try the beautiful mavembe tuning (also known as gandanga tuning)? Come and try it! You will learn to play the kushaura part for "Chipembere" ("Rhinoceros"). This piece is played completely differently from "Chipembere" on nyamaropa tuning. The style will be that taught by Tute Chigamba.

Introduction to Mbira: Nhema Musasa

Teachers: Erica Azim

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira

Your first mbira lesson! You will learn how to hold the instrument correctly and use correct playing technique, as well as learning an easy version of the piece "Nhema Musasa" ("Cut branches for a temporary shelter"). This is not the version most commonly taught in our community; it's beautiful and easy to learn.

Anyone Can Sing with Mbira (and Marimba)

Teachers: Erica Azim

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Singing

Anyone can sing with mbira by learning to listen to simple lines in the music and singing them with Shona-style vocables. We'll try this out with several pieces and you can make requests.

Chipindura Solo Style

Teachers: Erica Azim

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Mbira

Learn a really different style of the traditional mbira piece "Chipindura" that is oh-so-satisfying to play solo, that I developed last year. It starts with a cool version from Leonard Chiyanike that has a different hand pattern from the usual, then adds wild bass lines adapted from Samaita Vitalis Botsa. So many of us don’t get to play with another mbira player as often as we’d wish, so this is one to completely satisfy you when playing solo.

Chipindura on Marimba

Teachers: Kurai Blessing Mubaiwa

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Mbira

"Chipindura" is a traditional mbira song from the Shona people. It is a song I would consider a tough one to break down all of its kushaura (lead) and kutsinhira (harmonizing) parts in order to bring it to a marimba orchestra. This is my own adaptation of "Chipindura" on marimba.

Uploading Matepe: Online Learning and Connections with Northeastern Zimbabwe

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $7.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Mbira, Singing, Hosho, Culture

This presentation focuses on the growth of online matepe resources, the significance of this online activity and how it relates to current matepe practices in Nyamapanda, Zimbabwe. Matepe is a type of mbira, historically from Northeastern Zimbabwe and adjacent areas across the border in Mozambique. We will engage in active listening and participatory music-making during this hour-long lecture/demonstration to learn more about specific characteristics of matepe music.

Nyunga nyunga: Unga Utete

Teachers: Zachary Moon

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira

In this workshop we will work on a song called "Unga Utete," or "The Gunpowder is Thin." Participants will learn the basic pattern and, time permitting, two additional parts that build upon the basic pattern. When played together, these two parts are a great introduction to hocketing on the nyunga nyunga mbira. This song was taught to me by Tendai Muparutsa.

Chipembere on Marimba

Teachers: Kurai Blessing Mubaiwa

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Mbira

"Chipembere" is a traditional Shona mbira piece. Having been exposed to various families' ways of playing mbira, I am always quite amazed by how mbira pieces sound on marimba ensembles. This will be my own way of playing "Chipembere" on marimba, yet with a dominant influence from Garikayi Tirikoti's preferred mbira orchestra style.

Taireva yePasichigare

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira, Singing, Hosho

"Taireva" means "we used to tell you," referring to one who has fallen into problems because he did not listen to advice and "yepasichigare" means "from a long time ago." Advanced students are also welcome to attend, but I will teach at the level of the intermediate students who are present.

Karigamombe

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Teens, Adults

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira

The song means "to overpower a bull."

Hosho: Refining Your Swoosh, Finding the Pocket

Teachers: Zachary Moon

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira, Hosho

Hosho are difficult to play well, let's face it. Having the basic idea of how the hosho fit with the rest of the music can be learned relatively quickly, but to really develop a nice sense of the "pocket" and to get great consistent sounds from the rattles is a lifelong process. It's always just out of reach as it were! With this workshop we are hoping to help all of us (ourselves included) try to get a little closer to the seemingly unattainable! We will be mainly working on mbira style hosho playing in this workshop and we will actually play a little mbira accompanying the workshop so you can test out your new skills and methods in context.

Chigwaya

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Singing, Hosho

This is a beautiful piece from Zimbabwe about "chigwaya," or bream fish. It is an important piece for "njuzu," or water spirit, ceremonies. Come learn a great arrangement that simply conveys the beauty and funky rhythmic nature of this piece. You will also learn the main singing lines that accompany the song. Students above advanced beginning level may register but are requested to participate in a manner considerate of those less experienced.

Hosho for Beginners

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Hosho, Workshops for Teachers

Hosho gourd rattles are our favorite instruments! These provide the main pulse(s!), groove and means for dancing to so much great mbira and marimba music. Good hosho players are hard to come by and mean the world to any marimba band or mbira group. We would like to help you lay solid foundations on your path towards hosho proficiency! We will also be playing a little marimba during this workshop so you can test out your new skills in context.

Matepe: Aroyiwa Mwana

Teachers: Zachary Moon

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira

This class will introduce participants to matepe (aka hera, or madhebe), a mbira played by cultural groups in Zimbabwe such as the Korekore, Budya and Marembe. We will first familiarize ourselves with the instrument and get to know the key layout, and then work on learning a song transcribed in Andrew Tracey's 1970 article: Aroyiwa Mwana, "The Child Has Been Bewitched." This song is still being played in Nyamapanda, Zimbabwe today by the Zonke-Tsonga family.

Children's Songs and Games for Educators

Teachers: Amy Stewart McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Culture, Workshops for Teachers

From seated circle games to active running games, a good music educator needs a "bag of tricks" to spice up their classes, change the energy of the room and deepen childrens' experience of Zimbabwean music. In this workshop you will learn (through participation!) a variety of games to take back to your classroom.

Mharapara Matende & Other Village Songs

Teachers: “Samaita” Vitalis Wilbert Botsa

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing

A favorite song of Samaita's 91-year old mother, "Mharapara Matende" tells the antelope to be careful of the lion hunting it (also symbolic of human situations). This song is for mashave ekuvhima, the hunting spirits (singular: shave rekuvhima). These are the spirits that help you to find food/sustenance for yourself and your family. Nowadays, they could help you to find a good job. If you play mbira (not required!), it is suggested you also take the mbira workshop to learn to accompany the song. Time permitting, another song may also be taught. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LWLgB3Csqmg

A Cultural Experience: One World, One Love!

Teachers: Tafadzwa Matamba

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Culture

Join Mbira Spirit for an inspirational and enriching workshop as we delve into the rhythms, stories, dances and songs of Zimbabwe and more! This class is for everyone, all ages and all abilities! Tafadzwa and Amy Matamba share their passion and love for music with sweet harmonies, village-style dancing, inspiring messages and heartfelt stories. Zimbabwean music, tradition and culture are explored through music to show that we have a lot to learn from each other and there is a great need to acknowledge one another with love and respect.

Dandanda Drumming

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Singing, Drumming, Hosho

A rhythm played for ceremonies in the Chiriseri/Domboshawa region of Zimbabwe.

Anyone Can Sing with Mbira (and Marimba)

Teachers: Erica Azim

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Singing

Anyone can sing with mbira by learning to listen to simple lines in the music and singing them with Shona-style vocables. We'll try this out with several pieces and you can make requests.

Uploading Matepe: Online Learning and Connections with Northeastern Zimbabwe

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $7.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Mbira, Singing, Hosho, Culture

This presentation focuses on the growth of online matepe resources, the significance of this online activity and how it relates to current matepe practices in Nyamapanda, Zimbabwe. Matepe is a type of mbira, historically from Northeastern Zimbabwe and adjacent areas across the border in Mozambique. We will engage in active listening and participatory music-making during this hour-long lecture/demonstration to learn more about specific characteristics of matepe music.

Singing DzeMadandanda (2 songs) Hutandara and Dindingwe

Teachers: Kurai Blessing Mubaiwa

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Drumming

In this class we are going on a singing journey to Murehwa where I was born and raised. I will lead all the participants in mesmerizing madandanda singing. Among all drumming styles and rhythms to come out of Zimbabwe, madandanda was very common in the area where I grew up, Murehwa. It is characterized by two short drums (father and son) playing syncopated higher pitch versus lower pitch and it is always accompanied by hosho. We will mark the rhythms but focus on the two songs that we shall sing together,

New Day/Tinotenda

Teachers: Mary Ellen Garrett

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Singing

A fun and lively marimba song I composed that plays around with chord structures, has a shared running lead, and ends with simple singing, thanking our teachers.

Taireva yePasichigare

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira, Singing, Hosho

"Taireva" means "we used to tell you," referring to one who has fallen into problems because he did not listen to advice and "yepasichigare" means "from a long time ago." Advanced students are also welcome to attend, but I will teach at the level of the intermediate students who are present.

Singing: Shumba, Shanje, Tadzungaira

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing

Patience will teach one or more of these mbira songs, as time permits. "Shumba" is the lion, "Shanje" means jealousy, and "Tadzungaira" means "We have been wandering." All are well-known mbira songs.

Drumming: Kuenda Mbire

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Drumming, Workshops for Teachers

"Kuenda Mbire" means "going to Mbire." We may sing too!

Southern African Choral Dance Songs

Teachers: Val Rogers

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Singing, Dance, Workshops for Teachers

We'll learn lively songs from Zimbabwe and South Africa with great harmonies, rhythms, and steps. Bass voices are encouraged! Choral experience per se is not necessary, just a love of singing. Some experience with African music or dance is helpful. Bands are invited to come as a group and take home some fun choral pieces to complement your instrumental repertoire.

Mutengeni

Teachers: Wanda Walker

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Singing

Wanda learned this traditional mbira song from Chartwell Dutiro (found on the CD Spirit Talk Mbira / Ndonga Mahwe). She arranged it for marimba with her band, Jenaguru. The lyrics are “Kashiri kamambo, Kangaka chamhedza; Nhengeni / Mutengeni,” which means “The small bird of the king might swallow the nhengeni, the fruit of the mutengeni tree.” Jenaguru members are happy to have added this very danceable song to their set list. Key of G, ionian mode (uses F#s). If time, basic singing lines will be taught. You may listen to this arrangement through a link on this web page: http://www.marimbaworks.com/WWalker/

Chigwaya

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Singing, Hosho

This is a beautiful piece from Zimbabwe about "chigwaya," or bream fish. It is an important piece for "njuzu," or water spirit, ceremonies. Come learn a great arrangement that simply conveys the beauty and funky rhythmic nature of this piece. You will also learn the main singing lines that accompany the song. Students above advanced beginning level may register but are requested to participate in a manner considerate of those less experienced.

Nyarara Baba: a Mhande song on Marimba

Teachers: Wanda Walker

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Singing, Drumming, Workshops for Teachers

First we will learn to play the basic Mhande drum pattern and some variations as played in Eugene, Oregon. We'll layer in the hosho, clapping and clave patterns. Next we'll learn the singing lines to "Nyarara Baba," which I learned from Jennifer Kyker (as "Ndoenda Zvangu Kumandega"). We'll then learn the marimba arrangement by Mandy Walker-LaFollette. Mhande is a dance form with singing and drumming, used to pray for rain and bless seeds before planting.

Advanced Marimba with Singing

Teachers: Zivanai Masango

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Singing, Language, Culture

The workshop tackles Thomas Mapfumo's "Chauya Chiruzevha." The objective is to have as many players as possible sing while they play. Singers who do not play marimba are also welcome to this workshop.

Dandanda Drumming

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Singing, Drumming, Hosho

A rhythm played for ceremonies in the Chiriseri/Domboshawa region of Zimbabwe.

Shona Rhythms 101: Tsaba

Teachers: Kite Giedraitis

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Drumming, Hosho

This workshop will open up your ears to better hear syncopated rhythms and how they relate to the underlying beat, providing tools to help you and your band get tighter. The session includes a brief hosho workshop. It is not a lecture and will be very participatory, with lots of fun, mind-expanding exercises. We will focus on duple-time music (songs with tsaba hosho). Students above advanced beginning level also welcome in this class.

Singing DzeMadandanda (2 songs) Hutandara and Dindingwe

Teachers: Kurai Blessing Mubaiwa

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Drumming

In this class we are going on a singing journey to Murehwa where I was born and raised. I will lead all the participants in mesmerizing madandanda singing. Among all drumming styles and rhythms to come out of Zimbabwe, madandanda was very common in the area where I grew up, Murehwa. It is characterized by two short drums (father and son) playing syncopated higher pitch versus lower pitch and it is always accompanied by hosho. We will mark the rhythms but focus on the two songs that we shall sing together,

Marimba Fundamentals for Learning and Improvisation

Teachers: Mandla Kaunda

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Drumming

This class will focus on how to really play the marimba, coming from two teachers who have played since childhood, one in Zimbabwe and one in the U.S. Topics will include sticking techniques, gaining stamina and agility and how to get the best sound. Then we'll move on to WHAT to play. This will include ways of building on what you know already by learning to do variations and beginning to improvise. Special emphasis will be given to rhythm, with concepts from Chris Berry's FAR system (Fundamentals of African Rhythm).

Drumming: Kuenda Mbire

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Drumming, Workshops for Teachers

"Kuenda Mbire" means "going to Mbire." We may sing too!

Beginning Zimbabwean Drumming

Teachers: Sheree Seretse

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Drumming

Learn the structure and rhythms of patterns in Zimbabwean drumming. Students will learn basic hand positions, basic and cross rhythms representative of different Shona communities.

Nyarara Baba: a Mhande song on Marimba

Teachers: Wanda Walker

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Singing, Drumming, Workshops for Teachers

First we will learn to play the basic Mhande drum pattern and some variations as played in Eugene, Oregon. We'll layer in the hosho, clapping and clave patterns. Next we'll learn the singing lines to "Nyarara Baba," which I learned from Jennifer Kyker (as "Ndoenda Zvangu Kumandega"). We'll then learn the marimba arrangement by Mandy Walker-LaFollette. Mhande is a dance form with singing and drumming, used to pray for rain and bless seeds before planting.

Dandanda Drumming

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Singing, Drumming, Hosho

A rhythm played for ceremonies in the Chiriseri/Domboshawa region of Zimbabwe.

Uploading Matepe: Online Learning and Connections with Northeastern Zimbabwe

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $7.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Mbira, Singing, Hosho, Culture

This presentation focuses on the growth of online matepe resources, the significance of this online activity and how it relates to current matepe practices in Nyamapanda, Zimbabwe. Matepe is a type of mbira, historically from Northeastern Zimbabwe and adjacent areas across the border in Mozambique. We will engage in active listening and participatory music-making during this hour-long lecture/demonstration to learn more about specific characteristics of matepe music.

Shona Rhythms 101: Tsaba

Teachers: Kite Giedraitis

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Drumming, Hosho

This workshop will open up your ears to better hear syncopated rhythms and how they relate to the underlying beat, providing tools to help you and your band get tighter. The session includes a brief hosho workshop. It is not a lecture and will be very participatory, with lots of fun, mind-expanding exercises. We will focus on duple-time music (songs with tsaba hosho). Students above advanced beginning level also welcome in this class.

Hosho Accompaniment

Teachers: Kurai Blessing Mubaiwa

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Hosho

Hosho is an essential accompanying instrument to most of Zimbabwean traditional music, especially drumming, marimba and mbira. It's simply a metronome to the desired tempo of a song or piece. It is very simple to pick up hosho and make a sound but being in total control of the sound you make can be a challenge. In this class I would like to share with all the students my own simplified way of the rhythms versus the control of the seeds inside the shells. We will cover the traditional mbira style as well as the contemporary one (which may be called many other names) but it is indeed the 4/4 rhythm unlike the 6/8 or 12/8 mbira one.

Hosho Accompaniment

Teachers: Kurai Blessing Mubaiwa

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Hosho

Hosho is an essential accompanying instrument to most of Zimbabwean traditional music, especially drumming, marimba and mbira. It's simply a metronome to the desired tempo of a song or piece. It is very simple to pick up hosho and make a sound but being in total control of the sound you make can be a challenge. In this class I would like to share with all the students my own simplified way of the rhythms versus the control of the seeds inside the shells. We will cover the traditional mbira style as well as the contemporary one (which may be called many other names) but it is indeed the 4/4 rhythm unlike the 6/8 or 12/8 mbira one.

Taireva yePasichigare

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira, Singing, Hosho

"Taireva" means "we used to tell you," referring to one who has fallen into problems because he did not listen to advice and "yepasichigare" means "from a long time ago." Advanced students are also welcome to attend, but I will teach at the level of the intermediate students who are present.

Hosho: Refining Your Swoosh, Finding the Pocket

Teachers: Zachary Moon

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Mbira, Hosho

Hosho are difficult to play well, let's face it. Having the basic idea of how the hosho fit with the rest of the music can be learned relatively quickly, but to really develop a nice sense of the "pocket" and to get great consistent sounds from the rattles is a lifelong process. It's always just out of reach as it were! With this workshop we are hoping to help all of us (ourselves included) try to get a little closer to the seemingly unattainable! We will be mainly working on mbira style hosho playing in this workshop and we will actually play a little mbira accompanying the workshop so you can test out your new skills and methods in context.

Chigwaya

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Singing, Hosho

This is a beautiful piece from Zimbabwe about "chigwaya," or bream fish. It is an important piece for "njuzu," or water spirit, ceremonies. Come learn a great arrangement that simply conveys the beauty and funky rhythmic nature of this piece. You will also learn the main singing lines that accompany the song. Students above advanced beginning level may register but are requested to participate in a manner considerate of those less experienced.

Hosho for Beginners

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Hosho, Workshops for Teachers

Hosho gourd rattles are our favorite instruments! These provide the main pulse(s!), groove and means for dancing to so much great mbira and marimba music. Good hosho players are hard to come by and mean the world to any marimba band or mbira group. We would like to help you lay solid foundations on your path towards hosho proficiency! We will also be playing a little marimba during this workshop so you can test out your new skills in context.

Do Not Fear the Hosho

Teachers: MyLinda King

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Hosho

Do you have hosho phobia? Even if you have never held a pair of hosho in your hands, you can take this workshop. We will learn two–and possibly three–basic patterns that will allow you to play with almost any song. The focus will be on staying relaxed. If there is interest we will also talk about growing your own hosho.

Mbira Dance

Teachers: “Samaita” Vitalis Wilbert Botsa

Cost: $15.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira, Dance

In Zimbabwe, people dance to mbira music all night long. There is no age limit; Samaita's mother is still dancing at age 91! Learn some village dance steps and then do them at the Zimfest evening concerts.

Tshikisha Dance and Leg Rattle Dance

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Dance

Patience will teach the Tshikisha dance from the Ndebele people, originally brought by Mzilikazi from Zululand. She will also teach a dance using leg rattles. If one can walk, she can dance!

Introduction to Dinhe Dance

Teachers: Rujeko Dumbutshena

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Dance

Appropriate for students with little to no dance experience, this workshop will explore the fundamental movements of dinhe. Students should walk away being able to embody some of the basic aesthetics of this dance. Dinhe is a harvest/celebration dance originally from Mashonaland West Province.

Starting from the Very Beginning

Teachers: Rujeko Dumbutshena

Cost: $15.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Dance

If you have never taken dance or have a fear of dancing that you want to overcome, this gentle dance class will give you some basic steps that will allow you the freedom to get yourself on the dance floor sooner rather than later! Find your freedom in movement with some basic dance moves that you can take to any dance floor!

Southern African Choral Dance Songs

Teachers: Val Rogers

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Singing, Dance, Workshops for Teachers

We'll learn lively songs from Zimbabwe and South Africa with great harmonies, rhythms, and steps. Bass voices are encouraged! Choral experience per se is not necessary, just a love of singing. Some experience with African music or dance is helpful. Bands are invited to come as a group and take home some fun choral pieces to complement your instrumental repertoire.

Story Telling

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $15.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira, Language, Culture, Children's Classes, Workshops for Teachers

Come learn and enjoy traditional stories that include call and response singing during the story.

Advanced Marimba with Singing

Teachers: Zivanai Masango

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Singing, Language, Culture

The workshop tackles Thomas Mapfumo's "Chauya Chiruzevha." The objective is to have as many players as possible sing while they play. Singers who do not play marimba are also welcome to this workshop.

Children's Songs and Games for Educators

Teachers: Amy Stewart McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Culture, Workshops for Teachers

From seated circle games to active running games, a good music educator needs a "bag of tricks" to spice up their classes, change the energy of the room and deepen childrens' experience of Zimbabwean music. In this workshop you will learn (through participation!) a variety of games to take back to your classroom.

A Cultural Experience: One World, One Love!

Teachers: Tafadzwa Matamba

Cost: By donation

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Culture

Join Mbira Spirit for an inspirational and enriching workshop as we delve into the rhythms, stories, dances and songs of Zimbabwe and more! This class is for everyone, all ages and all abilities! Tafadzwa and Amy Matamba share their passion and love for music with sweet harmonies, village-style dancing, inspiring messages and heartfelt stories. Zimbabwean music, tradition and culture are explored through music to show that we have a lot to learn from each other and there is a great need to acknowledge one another with love and respect.

Story Telling

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $15.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira, Language, Culture, Children's Classes, Workshops for Teachers

Come learn and enjoy traditional stories that include call and response singing during the story.

Uploading Matepe: Online Learning and Connections with Northeastern Zimbabwe

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $7.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Mbira, Singing, Hosho, Culture

This presentation focuses on the growth of online matepe resources, the significance of this online activity and how it relates to current matepe practices in Nyamapanda, Zimbabwe. Matepe is a type of mbira, historically from Northeastern Zimbabwe and adjacent areas across the border in Mozambique. We will engage in active listening and participatory music-making during this hour-long lecture/demonstration to learn more about specific characteristics of matepe music.

Cultural Talk: Shona Traditions and Rituals Relating to Death

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $7.50

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Culture

What happens to one who departs this world, be it normal death or suicide. Rituals done at burial, etc.

Advanced Marimba with Singing

Teachers: Zivanai Masango

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Singing, Language, Culture

The workshop tackles Thomas Mapfumo's "Chauya Chiruzevha." The objective is to have as many players as possible sing while they play. Singers who do not play marimba are also welcome to this workshop.

Story Telling

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $15.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira, Language, Culture, Children's Classes, Workshops for Teachers

Come learn and enjoy traditional stories that include call and response singing during the story.

Tinodanana

Teachers: Daniel Lockley

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Children's Classes, Workshops for Teachers

After the success of teaching Thomas Mapfumo's "Serevende" last year, I arranged another one of his nearly infinite catalogue of awesome songs. This arrangement is a little bit involved but still falls squarely in the intermediate camp. Students can expect such wonders as a two-part lead where each person plays half of the full melody and some pretty funky cross-rhythms.

Children's Games and Songs

Teachers: Rujeko Dumbutshena

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Children's Classes

This highly participatory class will have you singing, dancing and developing your coordination. The games and songs are from Zimbabwe.

Pfumvu paRuzevha

Teachers: Amy Stewart McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

This traditional song, popularized by Thomas Mapfumo, was one of the first songs Kutandara played. Still wildly popular at Kutandara Center, this is the arrangement we teach to new students. The song is mbira-style, but only has two (instead of four) phrases, making it accessible even to beginners! True beginners only, please.

Ndau Dance on Marimba

Teachers: Jesse Larson

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

Arrangement of a traditional Ndau piece with complex rhythmically-interlocking parts.

Ngosi

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Teens, Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

We will learn a very different song called "Ngosi" which has a unique meter in 9.

Contemporary Arrangement on Marimba

Teachers: Jeff Brahe

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble

Whether you start with a traditional song or a pop song on the radio, this class will teach you how to channel it through your own lens into something that others can enjoy. We will discuss several levels of learning, before delving into different styles and approaches to arranging music for marimba band. The instructors believe that marimba music is forever evolving. Our purpose is to celebrate that evolution, which occurs each time a new student learns to play, as that student incorporates their own story into what they have been taught.

Intensive: Mhondoro (INTENSIVE)

Teachers: Randy McIntosh

Cost: $60.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble

This version of "Mhondoro" was inspired by many of the Zimbabwean marimba teachers that taught at Kutandara Center in Boulder over the last several years: Bongo Love, Mawungira eNharira, Sheasby Matiure, Tendai Muparutsa and Zivanai Masango. This marimba arrangement carries with it the signature McIntosh style of being grounded in tradition, with a complex arrangement and cool breaks over the top!

Intensive: Goremupindu (INTENSIVE)

Teachers: Randy McIntosh

Cost: $60.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble

Based on "Bukatiende"/"Mukatiende" mbira parts taught to the instructor by Ambuya Beauler Dyoko and Cosmas Magaya, "Goremupindu" ("Year of Changes") is an exciting and inspiring marimba arrangement by McIntosh. The pace of the class and the depth of coverage of the song will be determined by the experience and abilities of the students; the full piece is quite a large body of work!

Arranging Zimbabwean Music for Marimba Ensembles

Teachers: Randy McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

Have you always wondered how marimba players arrange songs? Do you live far from any teachers and wish you could come up with your own marimba parts to Zimbabwean pop tunes you love? In this workshop you'll discuss several approaches to creating your own arrangements and then, as a group, take a song and begin the process!

Afropop Ensemble Class

Teachers: Zivanai Masango

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Ensemble, Guitar

Bring your favorite instrument and your voices… dancing shoes, too. We will learn a popular Zimbabwean song on guitar, marimba, mbira, ukulele, drum kit, hand drums, horns… you name it.

Children's Songs and Games for Educators

Teachers: Amy Stewart McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Culture, Workshops for Teachers

From seated circle games to active running games, a good music educator needs a "bag of tricks" to spice up their classes, change the energy of the room and deepen childrens' experience of Zimbabwean music. In this workshop you will learn (through participation!) a variety of games to take back to your classroom.

Pfumvu paRuzevha

Teachers: Amy Stewart McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

This traditional song, popularized by Thomas Mapfumo, was one of the first songs Kutandara played. Still wildly popular at Kutandara Center, this is the arrangement we teach to new students. The song is mbira-style, but only has two (instead of four) phrases, making it accessible even to beginners! True beginners only, please.

Ndau Dance on Marimba

Teachers: Jesse Larson

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

Arrangement of a traditional Ndau piece with complex rhythmically-interlocking parts.

Story Telling

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $15.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Mbira, Language, Culture, Children's Classes, Workshops for Teachers

Come learn and enjoy traditional stories that include call and response singing during the story.

Ngosi

Teachers: Chris Berry

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Teens, Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

We will learn a very different song called "Ngosi" which has a unique meter in 9.

Tinodanana

Teachers: Daniel Lockley

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Children's Classes, Workshops for Teachers

After the success of teaching Thomas Mapfumo's "Serevende" last year, I arranged another one of his nearly infinite catalogue of awesome songs. This arrangement is a little bit involved but still falls squarely in the intermediate camp. Students can expect such wonders as a two-part lead where each person plays half of the full melody and some pretty funky cross-rhythms.

How to Play Less Hurt

Teachers: John O’Brien

Cost: $11.25

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Marimba, Workshops for Teachers

This workshop intends to address many of the ailments to which marimba players are subject and to offer advice on how to deal with them. We will discuss and review the anatomy of the upper extremities, the physiology of mallet playing and some of the diagnoses and syndromes common to marimba playing. With this in mind we will review self-assessment of technique, identification of weak muscles and range of motion, and specific corrective exercises. The goal will be learning how to modify practice and performance in order to minimize downtime. With homage to Janet Horvath, I will provide a list of resources with advice on self-treatment and when to seek help from a professional (in what profession) as well as what to avoid.

Drumming: Kuenda Mbire

Teachers: Patience Munjeri

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Any skill level

Topics: Singing, Drumming, Workshops for Teachers

"Kuenda Mbire" means "going to Mbire." We may sing too!

Arranging Zimbabwean Music for Marimba Ensembles

Teachers: Randy McIntosh

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Marimba, Ensemble, Workshops for Teachers

Have you always wondered how marimba players arrange songs? Do you live far from any teachers and wish you could come up with your own marimba parts to Zimbabwean pop tunes you love? In this workshop you'll discuss several approaches to creating your own arrangements and then, as a group, take a song and begin the process!

Southern African Choral Dance Songs

Teachers: Val Rogers

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Advanced Beginner

Topics: Singing, Dance, Workshops for Teachers

We'll learn lively songs from Zimbabwe and South Africa with great harmonies, rhythms, and steps. Bass voices are encouraged! Choral experience per se is not necessary, just a love of singing. Some experience with African music or dance is helpful. Bands are invited to come as a group and take home some fun choral pieces to complement your instrumental repertoire.

Hosho for Beginners

Teachers: Jocelyn Moon

Cost: $22.50

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Mbira, Hosho, Workshops for Teachers

Hosho gourd rattles are our favorite instruments! These provide the main pulse(s!), groove and means for dancing to so much great mbira and marimba music. Good hosho players are hard to come by and mean the world to any marimba band or mbira group. We would like to help you lay solid foundations on your path towards hosho proficiency! We will also be playing a little marimba during this workshop so you can test out your new skills in context.

Nyarara Baba: a Mhande song on Marimba

Teachers: Wanda Walker

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Any age

Skill Levels: Introductory/Beginner

Topics: Marimba, Singing, Drumming, Workshops for Teachers

First we will learn to play the basic Mhande drum pattern and some variations as played in Eugene, Oregon. We'll layer in the hosho, clapping and clave patterns. Next we'll learn the singing lines to "Nyarara Baba," which I learned from Jennifer Kyker (as "Ndoenda Zvangu Kumandega"). We'll then learn the marimba arrangement by Mandy Walker-LaFollette. Mhande is a dance form with singing and drumming, used to pray for rain and bless seeds before planting.

Mbira Guitar

Teachers: Matt Gordon

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Guitar

We’ll learn a bass, middle, and high part for a Four Brothers mbira-style song, all on guitar. Bass players are also welcome. The style is based on electric guitars imitating mbira music. Basic music theory for mbira songs will also be discussed if time allows. Other levels (except Introductory) welcome, but the class will be taught around Intermediate level.

Afropop Ensemble Class

Teachers: Zivanai Masango

Cost: $30.00

Age Levels: Adults

Skill Levels: Intermediate

Topics: Ensemble, Guitar

Bring your favorite instrument and your voices… dancing shoes, too. We will learn a popular Zimbabwean song on guitar, marimba, mbira, ukulele, drum kit, hand drums, horns… you name it.