Learn to play the African Kalimba (Mbira Nyunga Nyunga) from Zimbabwe on this relaxed 5 week workshop series exploring folk songs from southern Africa.
Participants have the option to book on to the entire 5 week workshop series, or to attend one workshop on a date of your choice, subject to availability.
Some of the things you will learn on this workshop series include:
A repertoire of folk songs from southern Africa
An understanding of the cultural context of each song
Confidence to play on your own and with a group
Confidence to play several variations interchangeably on each song
The ability to sing some basic vocal lines to the songs you learn
The workshop series will conclude with the opportunity to perform for a friendly audience of family and friends for those who wish to take part.
Workshop dates: Sunday 6th October, Sunday 13th October, Sunday 20th October, Sunday 27th October, and Sunday 3rd November
Time: 11:00 - 12:00
Duration: 5 weeks
Tutor: Otto Gumaelius
Location: St Peters North Community Centre, 1 Marian Place, London E2 9AX
Cost: £10 per session
About Mbira Nyunga Nyunga
The mbira instrument belongs to an ancient family of lamellophones played by the Shona people of Zimbabwe. Traditionally, the mbira is used as a spiritual pathway connecting the living to their ancestors. However, in recent times, the mbira has been adapted into popular music by musicians such as Thomas Mapfumo and Stella Chiweshe.
We teach using a contemporary adaptation of the traditional mbira. This version is called mbira nyunga nyunga and it is a 15 key mbira that was introduced in the 1960’s in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, based on a type of kalimba played in neighbouring Mozambique. With a beautiful, soothing sound, the mbira nyunga nyunga has captivated players around the world. Famous players of the instrument include Chiwoniso Maraire and Hope Masike.
About Your Workshop Leader
Otto Gumaelius is a London based, Botswana raised, percussionist specialising in the Kwanongoma marimba and mbira nyunga nyunga of southern Africa. He writes and performs with his band Otto & The Mutapa Calling, and teaches music from Zimbabwe, South Africa and Botswana through his cultural arts and events company, Taste of Southern Africa. He is also a published author with a 1st Class Master of Arts Honours Degree in International Management.
