Dinhe Drumming |
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Teacher: Ndomupeishe Chipendo |
Dinhe is a traditional celebratory dance from Zimbabwe that narrates the historical practices of plowing and harvesting crops, commemorating a bountiful harvest from the past. This dance vividly depicts the stages of planting, the pollination process and the subsequent harvest period. In this workshop, we will explore variations of the drumming patterns to accompany dinhe dance. |
Mhondoro |
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Teacher: Blessing Chimanga |
“Mhondoro” is a popular mhande song played on both marimba and mbira. This version is rearranged by Blessing Chimanga and yet keeps the true authentic sound of the traditional song. |
Ndonda |
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Teacher: Jeff Brahe |
An important song in the hera/matepe repertoire, “Ndonda” has unique and beautiful melodies similar to the mbira dzavadzimu song “Dangurangu.” This arrangement features some very challenging rhythms and parts, but when it all comes together it will transport you to an otherworldly state of being!. |
Boris The Bassman |
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Teacher: Amy McIntosh |
“Boris the Bassman” is a great song for beginning students. The song is in A minor which gives it a spooky, mysterious feeling. We’ll learn the two parts that Noah Tauscher taught Amy McIntosh when he was six years old, and add additional parts that have been developed at Kutandara over the years. Noah Tauscher learned this song in his elementary school music classroom on Orff instruments in Sequim, Washington. |
Ndebele Singing |
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Teacher: Lucky Moyo |
Learn songs about various Ndebele topical and traditional issues. |
Vana Vechikoro |
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Teacher: Michael Sibanda |
“Vana Vechikoro” is a traditional Shona song that translates to “Schoolchildren” in English. Also done by Thomas Mapfumo, it is often sung in schools and community gatherings, carrying messages about education, discipline and the experiences of students. Like many Shona traditional songs, it follows a call-and-response format with cyclical rhythms, making it a great choice for marimba ensembles. |
Exploring Nyunga Nyunga |
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Teacher: Lino Piloto |
This interactive workshop invites participants to explore the rich cultural heritage and mesmerizing sounds of this traditional Zimbabwean instrument. This session will introduce the basics of playing techniques of the nyunga nyunga and its role in our Zimbabwean culture. We will be exercising the development of hand-eye coordination and learning simple melodies and rhythms. We look forward to sharing the enchanting world of nyunga nyunga mbira with you! |
Ngano Folktales: Storytelling |
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Teacher: Anesu Ndoro |
We will learn the significance of ngano folktales in Zimbabwean (specifically Karanga) cultures. Through a brief presentation and demonstrations in the first half hour, I will show students how to tell a typical set of ngano, showcasing different kinds of folktales. In the next hour, we will collectively create our own folktales (based on prompts I’ll give during the workshop).The workshop will conclude with us sharing our stories as in the olden days. Ngano folktales often include a musical component, so any student who wishes to include mbira, marimba, drumming or hosho in their story creation, feel free to bring it! |
Kwalanga Kuya Kwa Kwa |
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Teacher: MyLinda King |
This high-energy song was first recorded by Themba Tana in the 1980s. This arrangement is in the F major pentatonic mode which gives the song an unusual flavor. Other surprises include a brief modulation to G major and a lightning fast soprano duet in the middle. The lead and first soprano parts require some technical prowess but the other parts are not too difficult. A little cowbell spices things up. |
Guitar |
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Teacher: Zivanai Masango |
Learn from the master! This workshop is open to electric and acoustic guitar players at any level. |
Culture In Transition |
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Teacher: Helen Masvikeni – Masango |
A provocative exploration of what elements of Zimbabwean culture still serve its people and what might need to be questioned, evolve or be abandoned. |
Dance Therapy |
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Teacher: Tsungai Tsikirai |
Develop movement and body confidence. The gym is not for everyone; dance is also a workout and can be used to communicate, connect and tell a story. |
Wandibaya Moyo Pt 1 |
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Teacher: Amy McIntosh |
“Wandibaya Moyo” (You Have Pierced My Heart) is an original song co-written by Randy McIntosh and Chris Berry. Over the years Randy has updated and developed the parts into a full four-section song. We’ll start with basic parts for sections 1 and 2, and finish with the unison break. Once we’ve mastered that, we’ll move on to sections 3 and 4. In this workshop it will be best to choose one part, rather than to try to learn them all. Sign up with your band! Be sure to register for BOTH parts of this two-session workshop. |
Rhythms Of Marimba |
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Teacher: Lino Piloto |
This interactive workshop introduces participants to the rich sounds and rhythms of marimba in a modern way. making it exciting to learn and play. This hands-on workshop will cover the basics of marimba playing techniques, explore various musical styles and provide a fun and engaging experience for all participants. |
Tinotenda Hosana |
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Teacher: Maria Minnaar Bailey |
This is a church song from Zimbabwe which I learned growing up. It is a song of thanks and praise. For those who really want to sing in Shona or Ndebele, but feel challenged by too many words: here is your workshop! There are only 4 words to learn. We will sing in 4-part harmony and learn a very simple dancestep as well. |
General Drumming |
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Teacher: Lucky Moyo |
Understanding drumming technique and where one gets different sounds on the drum. |
Pfumvu Paruzevha |
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Teacher: Bezil Makombe |
“Pfumvu Paruzevha” is a beginner’s song that has just two phrases. It is a great song for learning how to play mbira, as well as learning how to sing or tell stories with mbira background. The lyrics sung by Thomas Mapfumo speak to problems in the rural areas during the last days of colonialism, but others such as Matemai recorded the song as “Teurai Kuvadzimu.” I will teach the kushaura part, and time permitting, the kutsinhira as well. |
Zirume |
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Teacher: Michael Sibanda |
“Zirume” is a traditional Shona song, often performed with mbira, marimba and percussion. The word “Zirume” can carry different meanings depending on the context, but in many traditional songs it reflects themes of wisdom, ancestral respect and communal values.To capture the mbira-inspired interlocking rhythms, my four-part marimba arrangement is for the soprano which plays the main melody, imitating the kutsinhira (lead mbira part), with the tenor adding variations and fills, responding to the soprano’s melody, the baritone providing harmonic support with broken chords and syncopation and the bass driving the groove with deep, pulsing basslines. |
Rovai Marimba Imi |
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Teacher: Tipei Marazanye |
The nyunga nyunga gives one a feeling of Zim traditional music in this song “Rovai marimba imi” which was composed around 20 years ago. Although it is a gospel song, it has a traditional feel that made some church members in my congregation protest against it back then. The students will get the joy of gospel music in the nyunga nyunga mbira. |
Serevende YaNyamaropa |
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Teacher: Musekiwa Chingodza |
“Serevende” is a thing which goes on and on. This mbira song is very often played at the bira ceremony. Musekiwa will teach kushaura and kutsinhira parts, how to connect them and where to connect with the hosho beat. Time permitting, variations and high lines will be added. |
Sarura Wako |
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Teacher: Parker Ediger |
“Sarura Wako” (Find your Partner) is a Shona children’s song arranged for marimba band. Kids would form a circle and take turns singing about their ideal best friend/partner. This song is a great fit for marimba students who love to play upbeat tunes that make people dance! This arrangement is perfect for newer players and school groups. Students will learn the basic parts, arrangement, call and response singing, and some variations/lead ideas to build upon. Masks will be required for this workshop. |
Multi-Instrumental Ensemble |
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Teacher: Zivanai Masango |
This workshop is open to all instrumentalists and vocalists who would like to learn how “popular” music from Zimbabwe and Southern Africa is put together and performed. Participants can bring any instrument, with the requirement that they be fairly proficient at their instrument or have been studying their instrument seriously for at least a year and a half. Participants will learn rhythms and melodies from popular or traditional Zimbabwean songs with the goal of ending up with a fully developed song. This is a very fun process and will be beneficial for musicians of different backgrounds and levels of ability. |
Singonki |
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Teacher: Maria Minnaar Bailey |
This is one of the earliest tunes arranged by Sekuru Alport Mhlanga for the Kwanongoma College Marimba Band in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, and it comes from the Lozi people of Zambia. “Singonki” is the name of a small fish, similar to a barbel or catfish. It is a fun song to play, with its interlocking rhythms. The chord patterns are fairly easy, but the chords are not typical Western music chords, giving students an insight into how varied and interesting the music of different cultures can be. |
Songwriting About Issues |
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Teacher: Lucky Moyo |
A look at using songwriting to address particular issues such as protest, environment or gender. |
Alois Mutinhiri’s Mahororo |
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Teacher: Daniel Lockley |
According to Alois, “Mahororo” is a song about a special place where people used to go to brew beer for the rainy season. This version, while unique, still fits beautifully with other versions, particularly from teachers associated with the Mhondoro region, such as the Magaya family. |
Nwa Baby |
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Teacher: Michael Sibanda |
“Nwa Baby” by Flavour is a hit Nigerian Afrobeat song, originally “Sawale” by Rex Lawson. The track blends catchy rhythms with infectious melodies, creating an upbeat vibe with an undeniable dance energy. Its rhythmic complexity and infectious hooks make it an excellent choice for a marimba arrangement. The original version features a rich combination of Afrobeat rhythms, energetic horns and sultry vocals, which I have adapted for the marimba. |
Hwahwa/Karimugomba |
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Teacher: Bezil Makombe |
“Hwahwa” is a playful song that speaks of a drunk man disrespecting his in-laws, cautioning everyone to drink in moderation. The mbira part is the song “Karimugomba,” a traditional staple that is part of the Taireva family of songs. I will teach the kushaura part that I played on several Thomas Mapfumo albums such as Chamunorwa and Live at El Rey. |
Dinhe Dance |
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Teacher: Ndomupeishe Chipendo |
Dinhe is a traditional celebratory dance from Zimbabwe that narrates the historical practices of plowing and harvesting crops, commemorating a bountiful harvest from the past. This dance vividly depicts the stages of planting, the pollination process and the subsequent harvest period. In this workshop, we will explore three significant variations of Dinhe, presented in a choreographed format. |
Baba Va Bhoyi |
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Teacher: Tipei Marazanye |
This is a beautiful song by Susan Mapfumo that carries a message about responsibility. I put together a very nice arrangement that makes the song one of my favorites on marimba. Students will experience how a song slowly gets into the marimba or vice versa. They will have a taste of marimba music from a ”new hand.”. |
Mbira DzavaNdau |
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Teacher: Anesu Ndoro |
In this workshop, I’ll collaborate with Sekuru Solomon Madhinga (based in Zimbabwe) to help introduce mbira dzavaNdau to a wider audience. Sekuru Madhinga is an impressive custodian of the cultural knowledge of the Ndau people, and an excellent maker and player of this instrument which is seeing a resurgence after decades of decline. This will be an introduction to the instrument, by learning two songs “Chifembera” and “Zinyakadende.” Students can choose to learn one or both songs, depending on their skill level. All sales of mbira dzavaNdau instruments and proceeds from the workshop are passed on to Sekuru Madhinga. |
Jiti Song: Chawasarira |
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Teacher: Musekiwa Chingodza |
“Chawasarira” means “Why did you leave us behind?” This is one of the songs that we sing at kurova guva ceremonies, one year after a family member has passed. |
Introduction To Hosho |
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Teacher: MyLinda King |
Even if you have never held a pair of hosho in your hands you can take this workshop. The trick to good hosho playing is the right combination of crispy and swishy. You will learn three basic patterns that will allow you to play with any song. The focus will be on good body mechanics and staying relaxed. |
Taireva on Marimba |
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Teacher: Caden Davis |
“Taireva,” a staple of the mbira repertoire means “we told you” or “we used to warn you.” Caden will teach an arrangement for seven marimbas. |
Pan-African Orchestra |
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Teacher: Anesu Ndoro |
In this workshop, I will work with the participants in making a combined performance of my pan-African orchestra arrangement of Ambuya Beauler Dyoko’s song “Unozofa.” Ambuya Beauler, a master of the traditional repertoire of the nhare mbira, also went beyond the canon to compose her own songs. This workshop will feature a discussion break on the liberations and limitations brought forth by innovations in traditional music. We will combine mbira, marimba, drumming and voice, as well as other African percussion to bring this song to life in a pan-African orchestra. All are welcome to participate!. |
Taitandara |
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Teacher: Blessing Chimanga |
Experience the joy and energy of “Taitandara,” one of Blessing Chimanga’s most popular marimba compositions. The song is currently being played by many groups because of how challenging and yet fun it is to play and to share with audiences. The song comes out of Blessing’s Kuimba Nemarimba album. Taitandara means “we were hanging out, having a good time together” and that’s exactly what this workshop is all about! Come ready to play, dance and push your marimba skills to the next level!. |
Exploring Mbira DzaVadzimu |
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Teacher: Lino Piloto |
This session will introduce the basics of playing techniques of mbira dzavadzimu, the history and the meaning of mbira dzavadzimu and its role in our Zimbabwean culture. We will be exercising the development of hand-eye coordination, learning simple melodies and rhythms and experience an introduction to ensemble playing. |
Zambezi |
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Teacher: Maria Minnaar Bailey |
This upbeat song is named after the Zambezi River, which forms the northern border of Zimbabwe. Originally written as an accordion piece by Nico Carstens of South Africa, it was adapted for marimbas by the Kwanongoma Marimba Band in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, in the 1970s. It is a catchy tune with some fast sticking on the lead parts and is a lot of fun to play! But be warned, this is not a song for slackers; it has three different sections, and every instrument changes its part for each section. You will be working hard!. |
Zvichapera |
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Teacher: Caden Davis |
In this workshop, we will be learning my arrangement of “Zvichapera” which is modeled after Chiwoniso’s beautiful recording. We will look at how the marimba parts were extracted straight from the mbira parts to make an mbira-esque sounding marimba arrangement. |
Zimbabwe’s Cultural Uniqueness |
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Teacher: Tapiwa Kapurura |
I will share the impact of community culture and traditions that keep the people united, committed and loyal to helping each other. Trust is everything especially when it comes with tolerance, love, kindness and forgiveness. Therapists were unheard of among the majority of the population until a decade ago, so people were raised to tell stories, entertain each other, comfort the bereaved and uplift each other. There were many secrets to happy living that made people live stress-free and comfortable. I plan to share the components of what makes Zimbabweans resilient, ever-smiling and committed to loving one another. |
Twiza |
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Teacher: Jesse Larson |
“Twiza” (Giraffe) is a great song to learn for those who are just starting out on marimba. Though it is fairly 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. |
Drumming Basics |
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Teacher: Leo Brooks |
We will guide the group through the basics of polyrhythm, teaching traditional multipart grooves. For those who are new to hand drumming, this workshop will show you how to get great sounds out of your drum while keeping your fingers and thumbs safe. Geared for beginners but open to all levels, everyone will gain insights and have fun making music together in this workshop. |
Tozvireva Kupiko |
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Teacher: Tipei Marazanye |
During the war of liberation in Zimbabwe, musicians sang protest songs and those that conscientized people about why the war was fought. One such song was “Tozvireva Kupiko” by Thomas Mapfumo. Surely, this song will remind us about the war of liberation in Rhodesia. |
Hosho Basics |
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Teacher: Musekiwa Chingodza |
Learn the basics of good mbira hosho techniques, useful for both mbira and marimba. Time permitting, flashy tricks will be taught. |
Bukatiende |
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Teacher: Ted Wright |
“Bukatiende” (aka Mukatiende), a standard of the mbira repertoire, means “Wake Up, Let’s Go.” We’ll work on two kushaura parts, one of which can also be used for kutsinhira, and add some singing if time permits. |
Marimba By Zivanai |
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Teacher: Zivanai Masango |
Zivanai will teach a fun, danceable song out of the Zimbabwean popular music canon. |
Music Therapy |
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Teacher: Tsungai Tsikirai |
Learning choral singing in Shona, Ndebele and Zulu languages. |
Balafon |
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Teacher: Amy McIntosh |
“Balafon,” an original song composed by Walt Hampton and featured in his book Hot Marimba!, is a great song for beginners of all ages. We’ll start with Walt’s original three parts and add additional parts as time allows. Walt Hampton has granted his permission for this workshop. |
Shona Rhythms |
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Teacher: Ndomupeishe Chipendo |
This workshop is dedicated to exploring the various types of Shona rhythms using hosho and wooden clappers. The primary goal is to evoke and cultivate an appreciation for the diverse polyrhythmic patterns present in our traditional music. |
23-Key Nyunga Huru |
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Teacher: Tipei Marazanye |
I call the mbira that I developed “Nyunga huru” (large nyunga) solely because it has 23 keys on which one can play songs in three different major keys. For example, the nyunga huru in standard F tuning will have an F major scale, a B flat major scale plus a C major scale. I would like to think that this would be something “kind of new” that I will share with students at Zimfest. We will work on the song “Musandisiye ndega” which is sung in three parts plus a lead singer. |
Zimbabwean Proverbs |
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Teacher: Anesu Ndoro |
Knowing proverbs in Zimbabwe is a sign of literacy and wisdom. We will look at how these proverbs, which often draw profound insights from observing the mundane, teach an important lesson about presence and mindfulness in day-to-day living. We will do a creative activity in the second half of this workshop whereby we shall make our own proverbs by drawing on observations of our environment. This practice will train us to elevate our thinking into the metaphysical potential of the mundane, or simply put, seeing truths beyond the reality in front of us. |
Taireva |
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Teacher: Musekiwa Chingodza |
“Taireva” means “we told you” or “we used to warn you.” This mbira song is very often played at the bira ceremony. Musekiwa will teach kushaura and kutsinhira parts and how to connect them, and where to connect with the hosho beat. Time permitting, variations and high lines will be added. |
Buya Africa |
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Teacher: MyLinda King |
This is MyLinda’s arrangement of the well-known anthem “Buya Africa” (Come back to Africa). The lead could contain some tricky parts so an intermediate player could benefit from this workshop. |
Siyamboka |
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Teacher: Michael Sibanda |
“Siyamboka” stands as a testament to the rich musical traditions of the Lozi people who reside along the Zambezi Valley. This marimba piece, cherished as a standard at Kwanongoma College of Music, embodies the essence of African marimba music with its intricate rhythms, harmonic interplay and vibrant energy. This piece not only serves as a cultural bridge, bringing the sounds of the Zambezi Valley to global audiences, but it also provides a rich learning opportunity for marimba students to develop skills in rhythm, harmony and ensemble playing. |
Otsotsi |
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Teacher: Maria Minnaar Bailey |
Meaning “villain” or “scoundrel,” “Otsotsi” is an upbeat, fun-to-play marimba piece about a car thief. (Note: This is NOT the same song as Botsotsi, by Michael Sibanda.) I learned this song in the 1970s in Zimbabwe from Kwanongoma students Sheasby Matiure and Mickey Nemarundwe. I have added to the marimba arrangement since then. You will definitely enjoy this tune! . |
Hwahwa/Karimugomba2 |
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Teacher: Bezil Makombe |
“Hwahwa” is a playful song that speaks of a drunk man disrespecting his in-laws, cautioning everyone to drink in moderation. The mbira part is the song “Karimugomba,” a traditional staple that is part of the Taireva family of songs. I will teach the kushaura part that I played on several Thomas Mapfumo albums such as Chamunorwa and Live at El Rey. |
Rugare 1 |
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Teacher: Michael Sibanda |
Alport Mhlanga’s composition “Rugare 1,” which means peace, exemplifies the rich cultural heritage and vibrant rhythms characteristic of Southern African marimba music. Mhlanga’s contributions to marimba music have been significant. He was a pivotal figure in the development of Zimbabwean marimba and marimba music, mentoring numerous students and leading ensembles at Kwanongoma College of Music. Participants in this workshop are invited to perform in the Festival Highlights show from 4:10 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 10 if available. |
Wandibaya Moyo Pt 2 |
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Teacher: Amy McIntosh |
“Wandibaya Moyo” (You Have Pierced My Heart) is an original song co-written by Randy McIntosh and Chris Berry. Over the years Randy has updated and developed the parts into a full four-section song. We’ll start with basic parts for sections 1 and 2, and finish with the unison break. Once we’ve mastered that, we’ll move on to sections 3 and 4. In this workshop it will be best to choose one part, rather than to try to learn them all. Sign up with your band! Be sure to register for BOTH parts of this two-session workshop. |
Shona/Ndebele Language |
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Teacher: Tsungai Tsikirai |
Introduction to Shona and Ndebele language, focusing on simple communication. This workshop will enable the participants to learn words, sentences and gestures that will make it easy for them to interact with Ndebele or Shona speaking individuals. This is also an opportunity to learn a different language which will become handy should you visit Zimbabwe. |
Different Worlds |
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Teacher: Jeff Brahe |
Debuted at Camp Batidza 2023, “Different Worlds” is an original song that pays strong homage to the mbira tradition and chimurenga-style Afropop, while also innovating and blending with many other influences. This version will be a purely instrumental arrangement for marimba, but the song can easily be adapted for mixed instrumentation and/or a vocal lead. Experience and express the melancholic beauty and heartbreak that comes when two cultures and worlds collide and are wrenched apart again. |
Chizambe Bow Basics |
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Teacher: Anesu Ndoro |
In this collaborative workshop, I’ll introduce the chizambe/xizambe/chinyamazambe, a Southern African friction bow played by the Karanga, Ndau and Shangani peoples. Workshop attendees will learn the subtle rhythmic and melodic art behind this instrument. We will learn about the historical and cultural background of friction bows, the different musical styles used within different cultural iterations of the chizambe, and we learn a song called “Ndozofa Musango.” All sales of the chizambe instruments, as well as proceeds from the workshop, will be passed on to Sekuru Madhinga who made them, to encourage him to continue promoting this diminishing craft. |
Marimba Band Clinic |
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Teacher: Blessing Chimanga |
This workshop is designed for bands looking to elevate their performance through expert guidance in song arrangement, choreography and stage presence. Each participating band will bring a song of their choice to perform for Coach Blessing Chimanga. With his musical expertise, he will rearrange the song on the spot, enhancing the intro and ending, adding variations, creative twists and some movement and energy to enhance the performance. The band will leave with a revamped and dynamic arrangement ready to impress any audience. Refine your sound and stagecraft with one of the best coaches in the industry! In order to sign your band up for this workshop, write to teachers@zimfest.org for a code each band member must put in their registration. First come first served! Blessing may be able to teach more than one session. |
Gumboot Dance |
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Teacher: Lucky Moyo |
Learn rubber boot dancing from the mines of South Africa. Participants in this workshop are invited to perform in the Festival Highlights show from 4:10 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 10 if available. |
Alois Mutinhiri’s Chipembere |
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Teacher: Daniel Lockley |
According to Alois, “Chipembere” (Rhinoceros) is a song played by hunters before facing dangerous animals. |
Mamuka Sei |
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Teacher: Ted Wright |
This is a song inspired by the ritual of morning greetings in Zimbabwe, with the different marimbas representing different family members. It features call and response tenor parts and has a break featuring a bass/baritone call and response conversation. |
Chemutengure |
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Teacher: Bezil Makombe |
“Chemutengure” is a playful song that commemorates traveling on ox-drawn wagons in the colonial era, with lyrics that speak to lubrication of the wheels and the driver and his wife using lubricating grease as cooking butter and body lotion. It is an easy two-phrase song played on the nyunga nyunga, marimba, mbira or modern instruments, and can even be sung without instruments. I will teach the kushaura part on the mbira (and time permitting, the kutsinhira as well) that I played on the famous Thomas Mapfumo recording Live at El Rey. |
Nhemamusasa |
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Teacher: Musekiwa Chingodza |
“Nhemamusasa” means “building a new home.” Musekiwa will teach beautiful singing lines to this well-known mbira song; don’t miss out. More experienced singers will enjoy learning lead lines, but all can try, and will be able to sing the responses. Pronunciation and translation will be taught, along with where the singing fits with mbira and hosho. |
Ngorimba |
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Teacher: Michael Sibanda |
“Ngorimba” is a notable track (and name of an album) by the late Comrade Chinx (Dickson Chingaira), a prominent Zimbabwean musician renowned for his revolutionary songs during the country’s liberation struggle. The term “Ngorimba” is a fusion of “ngoma” (drum) and “marimba,” reflecting the song’s deep roots in Zimbabwean musical traditions. The song showcases a rich blend of traditional rhythms and instruments, and the marimba arrangement has a driving bassline inspired by the original groove, polyrhythmic tenor and baritone harmonies and a fast, intricate soprano melody (mimicking vocals and guitar). I have added djembe and hosho rhythms for added authenticity. |
Kamba |
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Teacher: Caleb Donahue |
“Kamba” is the Shona word for tortoise. The song was written by Mandy Walker-LaFollette and Wanda Walker, and it’s a cheerful song with some fun and bouncy parts. The song features some cool intro lines and duet sections. The difficulty level of this song is appropriate for novice or intermediate players. |
Rhythms Of Hosho |
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Teacher: Lino Piloto |
This workshop introduces the participants to the basics of hosho and its role in Zimbabwean traditional music, arts and culture. We will present fundamental techniques and skills, exploring traditional and contemporary hosho music styles, discussing types of hosho playing and construction and basic holding and shaking techniques. |
TjiKalanga Drumming |
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Teacher: Lucky Moyo |
Learn to play the TjiKalanga drum rhythms of the amabhiza dance. |
Mahororo |
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Teacher: Bezil Makombe |
“Mahororo” means the low or bass notes on the mbira, and the song is so named because it is heavy on those notes. It is a staple song on the mbira and after “Karigamombe” is the next song in learning the Nyamaropa family of songs. I will teach the kushaura part that I played on Thomas Mapfumo’s recording “Hanzvadzi” on the album Vanhu Vatema and it is closely related to “Mukadzi weMukoma” that I played on Mapfumo’s Roots Chimurenga album. |
Chiedza |
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Teacher: Jesse Larson |
“Chiedza” was written during a particularly dark and dreary Alaskan winter, in an attempt to brighten things up a bit! It features two harmonizing soprano lines as the main melodies, and some funky bass and baritone parts holding things down in the back. This song is fun, laid back, and danceable. |
Mbakumba Dance |
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Teacher: Ndomupeishe Chipendo |
Mbakumba is a polyrhythmic dance originating from the Gutu Masvingo region, traditionally performed to celebrate significant events such as the birth of a newborn, a bountiful harvest or a wedding. This lively dance involves both male and female participants. In this workshop, we will focus on five essential mbakumba steps, along with the accompanying clapping and singing patterns. |
Makwaya Singing/Movement |
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Teacher: Tipei Marazanye |
We will learn several four-part harmony songs by ear. “Zunguza muviri” means shake your body; some dance movements will be part of the singing. “Kwaya“ (plural form “makwaya”) is a Shona word that has been derived from the English word choir. Makwaya relates to Zimbabwean indigenous choral music which was very Afrocentric in nature. Songs to be taught: 1. Siyahamba siyahamba. 2. Kwangena thinabo 3. Juba lami 4. Gona ramachingura Participants in this workshop are invited to perform in the Festival Highlights show from 4:10 – 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 10 if available. |
Ncuzu |
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Teacher: MyLinda King |
This simple two-phrase song was composed by Dumi Maraire and was inspired by the Ndebele dance “Ingquzu.” The piece starts slowly and like a train leaving the station gathers momentum before bursting into more complex rhythms. The first part of the song can stand alone and serve as an introductory song, especially for kids. |
Chigwaya |
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Teacher: Daniel Lockley |
“Chigwaya” is a song from the mbira repertoire that is usually played for the njuzu, or water spirits. The song is noteworthy for it’s unusual six-beat cycle, giving it a unique flavor. |
Chemwainyera |
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Teacher: Caleb Donahue |
Chemwainyera is a contemporary song composed by Dumisani Maraire. It is very commonly taught to beginner groups at Kutsinhira Cultural Arts Center. The meaning of the song is “What you have been waiting for is now happening.” It is a lively song that is very fun to dance to. Players looking to learn the lead should be ready for somewhat complex running lines. |
Alois Mutinhiri’s Dande |
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Teacher: Daniel Lockley |
Dande is a place in Zimbabwe where people go to look for salt. It is also a place with many powerful spirits. This version of “Dande” is a unique interpretation of the song but still fits beautifully with other parts you may have learned. |
Chemutengure on Marimba |
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Teacher: MyLinda King |
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 a well-known song about a wagon driver, 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 from 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. |
Exploring Nyunga Nyunga2 |
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Teacher: Lino Piloto |
This interactive workshop invites participants to explore the rich cultural heritage and mesmerizing sounds of this traditional Zimbabwean instrument. This session will introduce the basics of playing techniques of the nyunga nyunga and its role in our Zimbabwean culture. We will be exercising the development of hand-eye coordination and learning simple melodies and rhythms. We look forward to sharing the enchanting world of nyunga nyunga mbira with you! |
