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NOTE: Most of the information below was included in the 1999 Zimfest Registration Guide which was mailed on Feb 19, 1999. Some changes occurred after that date and are reflected below. PDF files are available of the original Registration Guide, and the Confirmation Notice and PreFest info which were mailed in late April.
elcome to the registration guide for the eighth annual Zimbabwean Music Festival. The festival planning committee is honored to invite you to Port Townsend, Washington to share the joys of this music with us.
Registration Directions
Please follow directions on the registration and accommodations form to sign up for classes, concert tickets, meals and accommodations. (You will have to print both sides of the form.) Please indicate at least two choices for each workshop session and three choices for accommodations. We will accept forms by mail only, and they must be accompanied by payment. (No credit cards accepted.) It will help us if you mail your form in early. All forms postmarked March 24 or earlier will be processed together. These will be randomized to ensure an equal chance at receiving first or second choices for workshops. Registration forms postmarked after March 24 will still be gladly accepted and will be processed on a first come, first served basis. During the month of April you will receive a letter confirming your workshop and accommodations reservations.Where to Mail in Your Forms
Please mail your completed forms to: Zimfest '99, P.O. Box 1207, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Remember, we will accept registration forms BY MAIL ONLY.Festival Refund Policies
Cancellation Refunds
Refunds for people who are unable to attend the festival will be issued until May 28 (minus a $15 administration fee). There will be NO CANCELLATION REFUNDS after this date.Workshop Refunds
If you do not get into one (or more) of your first or second choice workshops, we will give you credit toward another workshop that you can register for before or during the festival. Before the festival (during April and/or early May) we will send out to those with workshop credit a list of new or open workshops to choose from. You may register for these additional workshops by mail, or you may wait until you arrive at the festival to see which workshops are open. If, by the end of the festival, you still haven't used up your Zimfest '99 credit, you may request a refund. We will place a refund box at the registration desk. You may also mail in workshop refund requests for one week after the festival. We will not accept class refund requests postmarked after June 14th. It's our goal as festival organizers to offer you so many great workshops that you won't need a refund!Volunteer: Help Make Zimfest '99 a Success!
We will need volunteers to help take tickets, decorate, set up stages, move instruments, clean up after the festival ... and the list goes on. So if you want to make your Zimfest experience richer, more fulfilling, and more fun, check the "Volunteer" box on your registration form, and we'll contact you about volunteering. We encourage you to consider this option.Accommodations
Onsite accommodations include dormitories, houses, a hostel and a campground. The buildings are clean and comfortable. See the accommodations page for information. Book your room using the accommodations reservation form on the back of the registration form.Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available through the Fort's food concessionaire. Dinners will be community meals, with an African dinner on Saturday night. For information on food, see the accommodations page. Sign up for meals on the accommodations reservation form. Performers and teachers will be served a complimentary lunch on Saturday. Other options for meals include a variety of restaurants and stores in town, a couple of miles away.Don't Forget!
Bring pens, paper, blank tapes, a tape recorder and batteries. (And how about a coffee mug, to be filled at our "cafe" near the registration area?) Bring any instruments you may need for your workshops, and please consider sharing your instruments and/or bringing extras. (We will have masking tape and pens available at the registration desk so you can label your instruments.)After Hours Concerts
In addition to outdoor concerts during the day and our big evening concerts, we will host after hours concerts in an intimate setting for those who like to play and dance late into the night. And, of course, there will be mbira parties!Community Dialogue
This has been a year of extensive dialogue among many community members about what it means for North Americans to teach and play Zimbabwean music. It is our hope that this communication continues during the festival. See listings under Presentations, Lectures & Discussions for workshops addressing this topic. Similar workshops may be added to the schedule this spring. We also plan to have a drop-in room available for anyone who wants to host a discussion at the festival.Festival Presenters
Zimfest Association is the Port Townsend organizing committee's business name. This year's festival is presented in collaboration with Centrum, a nonprofit organization for creative education and arts, located at Fort Worden State Park and Conference Center here in Port Townsend. Its multi-generational workshops, creative residencies and public performances annually serve more than 32,000 people from throughout Washington and beyond. Centrum's mission is to assist those who seek creative and intellectual growth and to present visual, literary and performing arts to the public.Pre-Festival Workshops
We are excited to announce a one-day prefest here at Fort Worden on Thursday, June 3. Our Zimbabwean teachers, Irene Chigamba, Musekiwa Chingodza, Paul Mataruse and Sheasby Matiure will each offer a workshop. They will also offer private lessons. The Festival Guide will include details of workshops and their location, as well as maps of Fort Worden and Port Townsend. See the schedule below.How to Contact Zimfest '99
Phone: (360) 385-2296
Email address: zimfest@olympus.net [account no longer active]
Fax: (360) 385-2296
Website: www.zimfest.org
Thank You The festival organizers thank all those who have helped us create this year's festival. We have received generous donations of time, money and advice from so many. We also could not have come this far without building on the tremendous contributions of all who have gone before us: musicians from Zimbabwe who have generously shared their music; and teachers, performers and organizers who have built this festival from the ground up, again and again. Our heartfelt thanks go out to all of you. We look forward to seeing you in June.
Friday Night Concert
McCurdy Pavilion, 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm, June 4, 1999
Performer From Type Kuzanga Santa Cruz CA marimba Musekiwa Chingodza & Friends Zimbabwe and elsewhere mbira Zanga Zanga Seattle WA electric Chriseko Albuquerque NM mbira, marimba Friday Night After Hours Concert
for festival participants only, 11:30 pm - 1:00 am, June 4, 1999
Marimba Muzuva Victoria BC marimba Kite Giedraitis Portland OR mbira Playing and dancing can continue after this portion of the planned program Saturday Afternoon Concert
Outdoor Stage, 2:30 - 6:00 pm, June 5, 1999
Rugare Marimba Richland WA marimba Limpopo / Sequimarimba Olympic Peninsula WA marimba Coeurimba Coeur D'Alene ID marimba Wagogo Albuquerque NM electric mbira Mushana Marimba Nelson BC marimba Saturday Night Concert
McCurdy Pavilion, 7:30 - 11:00 pm, June 5, 1999
Boka Marimba Portland OR marimba Mahonyera Seattle WA mbira Anzanga Marimba Ensemble Seattle WA marimba Chigamba Family & Friends Harare ZW mbira Saturday Night After Hours Concert
for festival participants only, 11:30 pm - 1:00 am, June 5, 1999
Kudana Eugene OR marimba Erica Azim Berkeley CA mbira The all night mbira party will start after this portion of the planned program Sunday Afternoon Concert
Outdoor Stage, 2:30 or 3:00 to 6:00 pm, June 6, 1999
Boulder Children's
Marimba EnsembleBoulder CO marimba Juba Bellingham WA marimba Not So Bad / Yesango Olympic Peninsula WA marimba Chimanimani Boulder CO marimba On-Site Band
with Chris Berry & FriendsVarious mbira, marimba Sunday Night Concert
McCurdy Pavilion, 7:30 pm - 11:00 pm, June 6, 1999
Kutamba (reunion) Seattle WA marimba Kwayedza Eugene OR marimba Lora and Sukutai Marimba
& Dance EnsembleSeattle WA marimba, dance, drums Sheasby Matiure & Friends Zimbabwe and elsewhere mbira Sunday Night After Hours Concert
for festival participants only, 11:30 pm - 1:00 am, June 6, 1999
Festival Jam Session
by Zimbabwean GuestsZimbabwe mbira, marimba,
drumming & dance• Concert performance schedules are subject to change at any time •
• In the event of rain, afternoon concerts will be held in McCurdy Pavilion •Concert Ticket Prices
Evening Concerts
$10 for each concert ($4 children 6-12)
or $25 for all three concerts
Afternoon Concerts
Free!
Thursday, June 3, 1999 12:00 - 7:00 Pre-Festival Workshops and Private Lessons 7:30 Potluck Dinner Friday, June 4, 1999 8:30 - 10:30 Registration 10:30 - 11:30 Opening Ceremonies 11:45 - 1:00 Lunch 1:15 - 3:15 Workshop #1 3:30 - 5:30 Workshop #2 6:00 - 7:00 Dinner 7:30 - 11:00 Concert 11:15 - 1:00 After Hours Concert Saturday, June 5, 1999 8:00 - 9:00 Registration 9:00 - 11:00 Workshop #3 11:45 - 12:45 Lunch 1:00 - 3:00 Workshop #4 2:30 - 6:00 Outdoor Stage 6:00 - 7:00 Dinner 7:30 - 11:00 Concert 11:15 - 1:00 After Hours Concert Sunday, June 6, 1999 10:00 - 11:30 Workshop #5 11:45 - 12:45 Lunch 1:00 - 3:00 Workshop #6 3:15 - 5:30 Village Meeting & Wrap-Up Discussion 3:15 - 6:00 Outdoor Stage 6:00 - 7:00 Dinner 7:30 - 11:00 Concert
Workshop #1 Friday 1:15 - 3:15
Intermed. Mbira: Mutamba - Erica Azim - 2 hrs
Intermed./Adv. Hosho with Mbira - Nathan Beck - 1.5 hrs
Solo Mbira/Marimba Singing - Chris Berry - 1.5 hrs
Beg. Marimba - Michael Breez - 2 hrs
Storytelling, Music & Games with Children - Irene Chigamba - 2 hrs
Mbira Singing: Bangidza - Musekiwa Chingodza - 2 hrs
Intermed. Shona Dance - Rujeko Dumbutshena - 2 hrs
Intermed./Adv. Drumming with Mbira - Irene Franco - 1.5 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Mbube - Kite Giedraitis - 2 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Kapotso - Stephen Golovnin - 2 hrs
Introduction to Mbira Dzavadzimu - Marian Grebanier - 2 hrs
Lecture: Popular Music in Zimbabwe - Claire Jones - 1.5 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Taisireva/Chemutengure - Paul Mataruse - 2 hrs
Adv. Marimba - Sheasby Matiure - 2 hrs
Beg. Marimba: Sithi Amen - Maria Minnaar - 2 hrs
Beg. Gumboot Dance - Ted Wright - 1.5 hrsWorkshop #2 Friday 3:30 - 5:30
Intermed./Adv. Mbira: Nyatwa - Erica Azim - 2 hrs
Drum and Hosho - Irene Chigamba - 2 hrs
Beg. Dance: Jerusalem - Julia Chigamba - 2 hrs
Mbira Dance and Song - Musekiwa Chingodza - 2 hrs
Story-Telling - Lora Lue Chiorah-Dye - 1.5 hrs
Beg. Hosho - Mary Ellen Cuthbertson - 1 hr
Jiti Dance & Drum - Rujeko Dumbutshena & Chris Berry - 2 hrs
Intermed./Adv. Drumming with Marimba - Irene Franco - 1.5 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Yuwi Maiwe - Kite Giedraitis - 2 hrs
Lecture: Tuning of the Mbira - Stephen Golovnin - 2 hrs
Beg. Marimba: Kukaiwa - Joel Lindstrom - 2 hrs
Adv. Dancing Hosho - Ona Mai Kyrie - 1.5 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Jiti Songs - Paul Mataruse - 2 hrs
Intermed. Choral Singing - Sheasby Matiure - 2 hrs
Intermed. Gumboot Dance - Ted Wright - 1.5 hrs
Workshops are listed alphabetically by teacher surname.
Workshops and schedules are subject to change.Workshop #3 Saturday 9:00 - 11:00
Intro to Mbira Dzavadzimu - Erica Azim - 2 hrs
Adv. Murewa Marimba - Chris Berry - 2.5 hrs
Intermed./Adv. Marimba: Composition - Michael Breez - 2.5 hrs
Mbira and Hosho - Irene Chigamba - 2 hrs
Mbira Singing: Bembero and Pasimupindu - Julia Chigamba - 1 hr
Story-Telling and Mbira - Musekiwa Chingodza - 1 hr (9-10 a.m.)
Story-Telling and Mbira - Musekiwa Chingodza - 1 hr (10-11 a.m.)
Story-Telling: Prophecies - Rujeko Dumbutshena - 1.5 hrs
Beg. Gumboot Dance: Mawissa - Irene Franco - 1.5 hrs
Intermed. Mbira: Nhimutimu - Stephen Golovnin - 2.5 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Feeling the Beat - Joel Lindstrom - 2 hrs
Adv. Dancing Hosho - Ona Mai Kyrie - 1.5 hrs
Shona Language - Peter Masundire - 1.5 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Babamudiki - Paul Mataruse - 3 hrs
Story-Telling: Story and Song - Sheasby Matiure - 2 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Mumweya - Maria Minnaar - 2 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Chemutengure - Rick Palmer - 2.5 hrsWorkshop #4 Saturday 1:00 - 3:00
Story-Telling: Personal Thoughts - Erica Azim - 1.5 hrs
Story-Telling: Shona Spirituality - Chris Berry - 1.5 hrs
Intermed./Adv. Marimba: Responsitory - Michael Breez - 2 hrs
Dance and Hosho - Irene Chigamba - 2 hrs
Intermed./Adv. Dance: Bakumba - Julia Chigamba - 3 hrs
Singing & Drumming: Mhande - Musekiwa Chingodza - 2 hrs
Beg. Hosho - Mary Ellen Cuthbertson - 1 hr
Beg. Dance: Dine Dance - Rujeko Dumbutshena - 1.5 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Mbube - Kite Giedraitis - 2.5 hrs
Lecture: Acoustics of Music - Stephen Golovnin - 2 hrs
Beg. Mbira Dzavadzimu - Marian Grebanier - 2 hrs
Beg. Mbira Dzavadzimu: Imbwa Wangu Machena - Joel Laviolette - 2 hrs
Beg. Marimba: Kukaiwa - Joel Lindstrom 2 hrs
Shona Language - Peter Masundire - 1.5 hrs
Beg./Intermed. Marimba: Contemporary - Paul Mataruse - 2 hrs
Adv. Marimba - Sheasby Matiure - 2 hrs
Singing: Two Songs from Dumi's Youth - Maria Minnaar - 1.5 hrsSaturday: 3:30 - 5:30
Teaching Zimbabwean Music Responsibly:
Workshop discussion led by Claire Jones and Sheree Seretse
Festival teachers do so much for us by sharing their time and experience,
that Zimfest organizers have made this workshop available at no charge
and at a time when teachers will be free to attend. Though this workshop
is primarily intended for teachers, everyone is invited to attend.
See Presentations, Lectures & Discussions for workshop description.Workshop #5 Sunday 10:00 - 11:30
Mbira Singing: Nhema Musasa - Erica Azim - 1 hr
Intermed./Adv. Drumming: Jiti Rhythm - Chris Berry - 1.5 hrs
Beg. Marimba - Michael Breez - 1.5 hrs
Beg. Mbira Dance - Julia Chigamba - 1.5 hrs
Mbira and Hosho - Tute and Irene Chigamba - 1.5 hrs
Singing and Drumming: Mhande - Musekiwa Chingodza - 1.5 hrs
Intro. to Nyunga Nyunga Mbira - Mary Ellen Cuthbertson 1.5 hrs
Beg. Shona Song - Rujeko Dumbuthshena - 1 hr
Original Gumboot Dance: Yayalode - Irene Franco - 1.5 hrs
Open Forum: Music Without Politics - Stephen Golovnin 1.5 hrs
(The Open Forum is free of charge.)
Intermed. Marimba: Feeling the Beat - Joel Lindstrom - 1.5 hrs
Story-Telling: Personal & Folk Stories - Paul Mataruse - 1.5 hrs
Story-Telling: Story and Song - Sheasby Matiure - 1.5 hrs
Singing: Songs From South Africa - Maria Minnaar - 1.5 hrs
Children's Marimba - Rick Palmer - 1.5 hrsWorkshop #6 Sunday 1:00 - 3:00
Singing: Intro. to Mbira Ear Training - Erica Azim - 1.5 hrs
Intermed./Adv. Hosho with Mbira - Nathan Beck - 1.5 hrs
Intermed. Murewa Marimba - Chris Berry - 2.5 hrs
Singing and Hosho - Tute and Irene Chigamba - 2 hrs
Mbira Dance and Song - Musekiwa Chingodza - 2 hrs
Lecture: Preventing Injuries - Mary Ellen Cuthbertson - 1.5 hrs
Beg. Dance: Dine Dance - Rujeko Dumbutshena - 1.5 hrs
Beg./Intermed. Hosho - Stephen Golovnin - 1.5 hours
Intermed. Marimba (& Mbira): Babamudiki - Paul Mataruse - 2.5 hrs
Intermed. Choral Singing - Sheasby Matiure - 2 hrs
Beg. Marimba: Sithi Amen - Maria Minnaar - 2 hrs
Intermed. Marimba: Singonke - Rick Palmer - 2.5 hrs
This music isn't neatly divided into categories. We encourage you to read ALL workshop descriptions. You will find drumming in singing workshops, mbira in dance workshops, singing in marimba worshops, and so on. Hmmmm... it's all tied together, just like in the village...
Thursday, June 3, 1999
Yes, pre-festival workshops are available! Our special one-day event features workshops, private lessons and an evening potluck.
12:00 - 2:00 Paul Mataruse
Paul will teach his composition "Babamudiki," which features mbira dzaVadzimu and marimba. For the song description, see festival guide. Mbira players, bring an mbira dzavadzimu (Leonard Nicoll's tuning) or nyunga nyunga (Chigamba tuning). 10-15 people.2:30 - 4:30 Musekiwa Chingodza
A singing workshop, with possible drumming, dance, and mbira. 10 to unlimited people.2:30 - 4:30 Sheasby Matiure
Advanced marimba. Participants will decide on songs at the workshop. 10-15 people.5:00 - 7:00 Irene Chigamba
Irene will pick one song and teach you as much as possible about how the drumming, singing, hosho and mbira are used together... and then move into the dancing. She will leave the class content flexible depending on the interests and experience of the participants. No prerequisites. All welcome. All levels. Needed: Drums, hosho, and earplugs... your voice and your feet. 10 to 50 people.
Private LessonsPrivate lessons with Musekiwa Chingodza, Paul Mataruse, or Sheasby Matiure will be one hour unless otherwise arranged. Arrange details of what will be taught with the teacher. (Some teachers are still in Zimbabwe, so we have little detail at this time.)
Sheasby Matiure can offer private lessons in nyunga nyunga (bring yours), drumming, or hosho.
Paul Mataruse is interested in teaching his own version of Chemtengure on mbira dzavadzimu (G tuning) and nyunga nyunga (Chigamba tuning). This version can be played together with marimbas.
Paul Mataruse is also willing to have workshops with ensembles so that we develop some of his songs and give them an understanding of how he interprets Jiti music.
Private lessons with Irene Chigamba are $10 to $20 (you decide) for a 1/2 hour lesson, plus $10 extra if you wish to make a tape (not to be reproduced or sold) of the last 10-15 minutes of the lesson.
Note: These workshops will give all of us an opportunity to listen to the music of honored guests from Zimbabwe and North America, as well as to hear stories about their lives, their musical influences, and the culture from which their music arises.
Personal Thoughts on Playing Zimbabwean Music
Erica Azim Sat. 1:00-2:30pm
Erica will talk about her experiences learning and playing mbira, and share stories of her travels to Zimbabwe (1974 to 1998). She will also share her thoughts about respectful behavior when visiting Zimbabwe, and the ethical obligation of North Americans playing Shona music to contribute back to Zimbabwe. Information about the non-profit organization MBIRA will be available. Bring your questions and ideas.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: unlimitedShona Spirituality: My Experiences
Chris Berry Sat. 1:00-2:30pm
Chris will share stories of his experiences at ceremonies, and wisdoms from Zimbabwe's spirit mediums.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: unlimitedStory-Telling and Mbira
Musekiwa Chingodza Two 1 hr. sessions: Sat. 9:00-10:00am; Sat. 10:00-11:00am
Musekiwa will tell Zimbabwean folk stories and accompany his stories with mbira music.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: unlimitedGrowing Up With the Music of Zimbabwe
Lora Lue Chiorah-Dye Fri. 3:30-5:00pm
Lora has lived in Seattle for many years, but she was born and raised in Zimbabwe. She will talk of childhood memories and share her thoughts about Shona music and culture. (Perhaps she will lead us in some singing and dancing as well.)
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: unlimited
Workshops are listed alphabetically
by teacher surname.
Music, Unity and Healing: Prophecies and Messages from the Mhondoros, Elders and Svikiros of Zimbabwe
Rujeko Dumbutshena Sat. 9:00-10:30am
Come hear and learn of the prophecies and messages of peace that directly concern all people, especially those who have been led and drawn to the music, people and culture of Zimbabwe. Rujeko gives her perspective as a Shona woman growing up in Zimbabwean society.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: unlimitedPersonal Stories and Folk Stories From Zimbabwe
Paul Mataruse Sun. 10:00-11:30am
Paul will tell about how he started playing marimba, how he writes original compositions, and how he arranges jiti songs for marimba. He will also tell folk stories his father told him whenever he was frustrated that his music didn't seem to go anywhere.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none Max Participants: unlimitedStory and Song
Sheasby Matiure
Sat. 9:00-11:00am; Sun. 10:00-11:30am
Sheasby will share personal narratives and stories related to the songs he will perform on mbira (nyunga nyunga). Participants will be asked to take part in some of the songs. Drums and hosho will also be featured.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: unlimitedPlease note that our other Zimbabwean teachers, Tute, Irene and Julia Chigamba, will incorporate personal stories and cultural background into workshops they teach.
Intermediate Murewa Marimba
Chris Berry Sun. 1:00-3:30pm
Learn one of my arrangements of the mbira song from Simon Mashoko called Ku Makudo.
Level: intermediate/advanced
Prerequisites: ability to play rhythmically challenging parts with a strong kutsinhira feel.
Max Participants: 10Advanced Murewa Marimba
Chris Berry Sat. 9:00-11:30am
Learn a "super funky" arrangement of a four-phrase traditional mbira piece called Kare Muchipfua.
Level: advanced
Prerequisites: at least four years marimba playing, and understanding of Shona rhythmic and melodic elements, eg. kushaura and kutsinhira.
Max Participants: 10Beginning Marimba
Michael Breez Fri. 1:15-3:15pm; Sun. 10:00-11:30am
In this workshop we will explore some basic musical concepts as passed down by Dr. Dumisani Maraire. A simple piece will be taught, giving participants an experience of ensemble playing with marimba. We will also explore a brief history of the marimba in North America and talk about some issues surrounding our roles and responsibilities as people learning music from another culture.
Level: introductory
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 20Intermediate/Advanced Marimba: Responsitory Playing
Michael Breez Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
In this workshop we will cover many aspects of "responsitory" playing, including but not limited to: rhythmical and melodic variations and appropriate times to execute these; learning to identify and vary resultant rhythms between different parts; and when a variation becomes a "new part." Some ethics discussion may arise in the workshop. Participants should be familiar with the following pieces: Zomba, Kapotso, Rugare, Warigamukono and Maimbo.
Level: intermediate/advanced
Prerequisites: familiarity with pieces mentioned above.
Max Participants: 20Intermediate/Advanced Marimba: Composition
Michael Breez Sat. 9:00-11:30am
We will explore the components of successful composition, starting from a "lead" melody line, and/or some inspired "basic pattern," and build the piece into a full ensemble basic pattern. Workshop registrants who would like to build their piece in the workshop are encouraged to send taped ideas to Michael no later than one month prior to the workshop (May 1). Michael will pick two "ideas" for the workshop. An ethics discussion will certainly be a part of the workshop. (Michael's mailing address: P.O. Box 581, Hood River, OR 97031)
Level: intermediate/advanced
Prerequisites: intermediate to advanced skill level on marimba
Max Participants: 20Intermediate Marimba: Yuwi Maiwe
Kite Giedraitis Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
Yuwi Maiwe is my arrangement of a Shona vocal piece taught by Mai Chi. It is not the song recorded by Dumi ("Yuwi Maiwe Ndofara...") but a completely different song ("Kana Tasvika... Zarurai Moyo..."). I will also teach the singing.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: be able to play 10 songs on marimba
Max Participants: 8Intermediate Marimba: Mbube (Wimoweh)
Kite Giedraitis Sat. 1:00-3:30pm
See under "Cross-Cultural Offerings" for workshop description.Intermediate Marimba: Getting Serious with Unondo Tamba Iwewe (Kapotso)
Stephen Golovnin Fri. 1:15-3:15pm
In this workshop we will use Kapotso to apply the principles of kukambira, call and response, and variations in the Dumi style. We will address interactions between all the players, and how to make the music flow and come alive for the musicians and the audience. Students should already be familiar with several parts to Kapotso.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: be familiar with Kapotso and know several parts
Max Participants: 12Beginning Marimba: Kukaiwa
Joel Lindstrom Fri. 3:30-5:30pm; Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
I will teach basic parts to Dumi's composition Kukaiwa, concentrating on rhythm and the interactions between parts. Also, I will include information about the history of marimba music in the United States as well as its roots in Zimbabwe.
Level: beginning
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 12Intermediate Marimba: Feeling the Beat: Techniques for Interlocking Parts
Joel Lindstrom Sat. 9:00-11:00am; Sun. 10:00-11:30am
Using clapping exercises and also marimba parts based on a typical two-phrase Shona progression, I will teach techniques for interlocking various mbira-styled parts. I will emphasize the ability to hear/feel the beat while playing one of these parts. This class should be of interest to anyone working on interlocking parts on mbira or marimba.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: some knowledge of mbira helpful. Intermediate ability level: e.g., Chemutengure, Zendakaiwa.
Max Participants: 12
Beginning/Intermediate Marimba: Contemporary Songs
Paul Mataruse Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
We will work with fun and easy contemporary songs from Zimbabwe, exploring lead, tenor, baritone and bass variations, tempo ranges, call and response, etc. I will teach Featherdust and/or Stork. This workshop will greatly enhance the listening skills of beginning players, and is also recommended for intermediate students wishing to explore "jiti" music.
Level: beginning/intermediate
Prerequisites: at least some exposure to playing marimba
Max Participants: 12Intermediate Marimba: Babamudiki
Paul Mataruse Sat. 9:00am-12:00pm
If you want to experience unique marimba-playing techniques while learning an original composition, then this one is for you. Learn how to play Babamudiki on F# marimbas. This song already has quite a following on mbira. (Adaptations can also be made onto C-scale marimbas while keeping the originality of the song.)
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: at least an intermediate skill level on marimba
Max Participants: 13
Jiti Music - by Paul Mataruse
Jiti music comes from the Shona people of Zimbabwe. The music stems from contemporary lifestyles and the need to preserve ancient culture. Most of the music has been passed on through singing at the "jiti," a gathering that usually begins in the evening and lasts into the early hours of the morning.
Intermediate Marimba: (and Mbira) Babamudiki
Paul Mataruse Sun. 1:00-3:30pm
Learn to combine mbira and marimba on Babamudiki (original composition; see page 5). The purpose of this workshop is to give students the opportunity to hear how the song combines the mbira with the marimbas. We will learn new and exciting lead and bass lines.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: intermediate level of ability on marimba and/or mbira
Max Participants: 10
Needed: if possible, a "G" mbira (Leonard Nicoll's tuning) or nyunga nyunga (Chigamba tuning)Intermediate Marimba: Jiti Songs
Paul Mataruse Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
Depending on class interest, we will either do Chikomba (Shona for "Lover") or Gandanga ("Freedom Fighter"); both are "jiti" songs transposed on marimba by Paul. He says, "I felt inspired to put something together on the marimba after I had realized the beauty of the songs in vocals."
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: at least an intermediate skill level on marimba
Max Participants: 12Intermediate Marimba: Taisireva and Chemutengure Variations
Paul Mataruse Fri. 1:15-3:15pm
Expand your horizons with out-of-this-world variations to Taisireva and Chemutengure. Taisireva will focus on the lead, baritone, bass and soprano marimbas, while Chemutengure will look at the tenors and the lead. The purpose of this workshop is to open your horizons to different tempo ranges, mallet techniques, call and response, etc.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: MUST know some parts to Taisireva and/or Chemutengure
Max Participants: 20Advanced Marimba
Sheasby Matiure Fri. 1:15-3:15pm; Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
Songs to be announced at workshop. Participants will decide which songs to work on at the beginning of the workshop.
Level: advanced
Prerequisites: advanced skill level on marimba
Max Participants: 15Beginning Marimba: Sithi Amen
Maria Minnaar Sun. 1:00-3:00pm
Learn how to play and sing Sithi Amen, a popular church chorus in Zimbabwe. The song is in the Sindebele language of Zimbabwe.
Level: beginning
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 9Intermediate Marimba: Marimba With a Voice: Mumweya
Maria Minnaar Sat. 9:00-11:00am
We will play (and sing) a popular Shona Church chorus, Mumweya, which was made into a hit song by Zimbabwean singer Oliver Mutukudzi.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: intermediate skill level on marimba helpful
Max Participants: 9Intermediate Marimba: Chemutengure
Rick Palmer Sat. 9:00-11:30am
I will teach Chemutengure on marimba, with vocals. A song sheet and translation will be included in the workshop. I learned a version of Chemutengure from Farai Gezi in Harare with Marimba Muzuva during our visit there four years ago. I learned the words from Mai Chi.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: familiarity with minanzi rhythm
Max Participants: 12Intermediate Marimba: Singonke, from Mozambique
Rick Palmer Sun. 1:00-3:30pm
See "Cross-Cultural Offerings" for workshop description, page 12.Children's Marimba Workshop
Rick Palmer Sun. 10:00-11:30am
See "Children's" for workshop description.
Basic Shona Language Course
Peter Masundire Fri. 1:15-2:45pm; Sat. 9:00-10:30am; Sat. 1:00-2:30pm
The main objective of this workshop is to increase the student's appreciation of Zimbabwean music by getting a basic understanding of the Shona language. The workshop will cover basic structure, grammar and pronunciation to give the student some introductory skills in Shona conversation.
Level: introductory
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 10
Needed: any Shona language books or lyrics you may have
Dance and Hosho
Irene Chigamba Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
Irene would be delighted to show you traditional dancing of Zimbabwe and show you how to 'play your feet.' She will teach you how to create rhythm with your feet to accompany drums and hosho. Move your feet to the beat! She will also share stories and answer any questions you may have and will instruct you in how to play the hosho.
Level: All welcome
Prerequisites: None. Also beneficial for experienced dancers.
Class size: Unlimited
Needed: Feet, hosho and earplugs.Beginning Mbira Dance
Julia Chigamba Sun. 10:00-11:30am
Come and learn some basic dance steps to mbira music.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 30Beginning Dance: Jerusalem
Julia Chigamba Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
Julia will teach the basic steps, ngoma and hosho to Jerusalem. Both men and women are encouraged to attend!
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 20
Needed: hosho or ngoma (drum) if you have themIntermediate/Advanced Dance: Bakumba
Julia Chigamba Sat. 1:00-4:00pm
Julia will teach the basic steps and variations to the traditional dance Bakumba. She will also teach the basic drum and hosho.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: some experience with African dance
Max Participants: 20
Needed: hosho or drum if you have themMbira Dance and Song
Musekiwa Chingodza Fri. 3:30-5:30pm; Sun. 1:00-3:00pm (Teaching assistant: Jennifer Kyker)
Musekiwa will share mbira music, song and dance from his home village. He will teach both singing lines and a few basic mbira dance steps.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 30Beginning Dance: Dine Dance
Rujeko Dumbutshena Sat. 1:00-2:30pm; Sun. 1:00-2:30pm
Dine is a celebratory harvest dance that can be learned and enjoyed by all. Simple steps that reflect the chores of everyday life will be incorporated into this class.
Level: all levels; children welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 25
Needed: comfortable dance clothes
Jiti Dance and Drum
Rujeko Dumbutshena and Chris Berry Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
Rujeko says that the word "ngoma" incorporates both drumming and dancing. She and Chris will teach a jiti dance and talk about how drumming and dancing interconnect and are inseparable.
Level: all levels
Prerequisites: all welcome
Max Participants: 35
Needed: wear loose clothing - no drums please, this is a dance classIntermediate Shona Dance
Rujeko Dumbutshena Fri. 1:15-3:15pm
In this class I will teach steps to Mbakumba and Chokoto Dance. Both have rhythmical foot patterns and therefore require participants to have some experience with dance and rhythm. Both dances make good performance pieces and are enjoyable to learn.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: some experience with dance and rhythm
Max Participants: 15Beginning Gumboot Dance: Mawissa
Irene Franco Sat. 9:00-10:30am
Irene will teach a beginning gumboot dance called Mawissa.
Level: beginning
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 20
Needed: gumboots or deck boots if you have them
Gumboot Dancing
This originated in the gold mines of Southern Africa and was brought to Zimbabwe by migrant workers. It consists of rhythmical stomps and slaps, along with vocalizations. These dances are fun and energetic.
Original Gumboot Dance and Song: Yayalode
Irene Franco Sun. 10:00-11:30am
See "Cross-Cultural Offerings" for description.Beginning Gumboot Dancing
Ted Wright Fri. 1:15-2:45pm
Fresh from a recent visit to Zimbabwe, Ted will teach a beginning gumboot dance.
Level: beginning; all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 30
Needed: gumboots or deck boots if you have themIntermediate Gumboot Dancing
Ted Wright Fri. 3:30-5:00pm
Ted has recently been in Zimbabwe, where he spent time with Black Umfolosi learning some new gumboot dance moves. He'll share those with us in this workshop.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: some experience learning gumboot dances
Max Participants: 30
Needed: wear loose clothing and bring gumboots if you have them
Introduction to Mbira Dzavadzimu
Erica Azim Sat. 9:00-11:00am
First mbira lesson: how to hold the instrument, how to listen to mbira, basic concepts. Then, learn the basic kushaura to Kariga Mombe ("Undefeatable"). If you are thinking about learning mbira but have never tried it, this workshop is for you.
Level: introductory
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 10. There will be 10 workshop instruments availableIntermediate Mbira: Mutamba
Erica Azim Fri. 1:15-3:15pm
Learn kushaura and kutsinhira parts to the traditional piece Mutamba. Mutamba (a fruit tree indigenous to Zimbabwe, with spherical bright orange-colored fruit) is a standard piece in the traditional Shona mbira repertoire, with many versions played by different families and mbira groups. I have heard several meanings of the piece; one is that in ancient times, if one prayed to the ancestors under the mutamba tree when in need, food and water would appear under the tree.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: know how to play kushaura and kutsinhira on at least four or five mbira pieces
Max Participants: unlimited, but only 10 workshop instruments available
Needed: bring a kanyuchi (high pitch nyamaropa) tuning mbira. Please write a note on your registration form if you need to use a workshop instrument.Intermediate/Advanced Gandanga Tuning Mbira: Nyatwa
Erica Azim Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
Learn kushaura and kutsinhira parts to Nyatwa ("Trouble"). Nyatwa is a gandanga tuning mbira piece Tute Chigamba composed about the troubles of an antelope being hunted; however, it is a very playful-sounding song!
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: experience playing in gandanga tuning (this will NOT be taught at a beginning level)
Max Participants: unlimited, but only 10 workshop instruments available
Needed: Bring a gandanga mbira if you have one. Please write a note on registration form if you need to use a workshop instrument.Introduction to Mbira Ear Training
Erica Azim Sun. 1:00-2:30pm
See "Singing" Workshops for description.Intermediate/Advanced Hosho and Mbira: Getting in the Pocket
Nathan Beck Fri. 1:15-2:45pm; Sun. 1:00-2:30pm
See "Hosho" Workshops for description.
Intro to Mbira Nyunga Nyunga
Mary Ellen Cuthbertson Sun. 10:00-11:30am
We will learn basic melody and highlines to Kukaiwa or Chemutengure. (Participants will choose.) We'll explore variations and singing if time permits.
Level: introductory
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 25
Needed: mbira nyunga nyungaIntermediate Mbira: Nhimutimu Ya Kunaka
Stephen Golovnin Sat. 9:00-11:30am
The late John Kunaka, or Maridzambira as he was known, was a great mbira player and mbira craftsman. His version of Nhimutimu was recorded by Paul Berliner and appears on the album The Soul of Mbira. This version presents Kunaka's unique and playful style as he jumps from kushaura to kutsinhira and back. Several versions of his kushaura will be taught, as well as kutsinhira.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: four years experience playing mbira dzavadzimu
Max Participants: 12
Needed: nyamaropa high tuning mbira dzavadzimuLecture: Tuning of the Mbira
Stephen Golovnin Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
See "Presentations, Lectures & Discussions" for workshop description.Introduction to Mbira Dzavadzimu
Marian Grebanier Fri. 1:15-3:15pm
This workshop is for those who have never studied mbira dzavadzimu. We will learn the basic kushaura part to Kariga Mombe, with ear training to hear mbira lines. If time allows, high lines and variations will also be taught.
Level: introductory
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 10
Needed: bring mbira dzavadzimu in nyamaropa tuning with an "A" low bass note.Beginning Mbira Dzavadzimu: Nyama Musango
Marian Grebanier Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
We will learn the basic kushaura, with high lines and variations, to Nyama Musango. We will do some ear training as well. We'll play the kutsinhira if time allows.
Level: beginning
Prerequisites: comfortable playing one or two pieces
Max Participants: 10
Needed: bring an mbira dzavadzimu in nyamaropa tuning with an "A" low bass note.Beginning Mbira: Imbwa Wangu Machena
Joel Laviolette Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
This is a popular two phrase song which Joel was taught by Newton Gwara. Joel will also teach the singing if there is time.
Level: Beginning.
Prerequisites: Need some familiarity with the instrument
Max Participants: 10
Needed: Nyamaropa tuned mbira if you have one. If not, Joel has a few available for use. Please note on your registration form whether you will need an instrument.
Intermediate/Advanced Hosho and Mbira: Getting in the Pocket
Nathan Beck Fri. 1:15-2:45pm; Sun. 1:00-2:30pm
In this workshop we'll focus on playing and getting the lock between hosho and mbira. This workshop is meant for groups that are playing hosho and mbira together, but anyone is welcome. Bring your mbira partner and come work on the groove.
Level: intermediate/advanced
Prerequisites: intermediate level of hosho and/or mbira (You don't need to be an mbira player to attend.)
Max Participants: 20
Needed: hosho and/or mbira, and earplugsDance and Hosho
Irene Chigamba Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
See "Dance" for workshop description.Drum and Hosho
Irene Chigamba Fri. 1:15-3:15pm
See "Ngoma" for workshop description.Mbira and Hosho
Tute and Irene Chigamba Sat. 9:00-11:00am; Sun. 10:00-11:30am
Tute says "Hosho is the candle that leads the music." Tute and Irene will play hosho and mbira to demonstrate how this is done. Besides instructing YOU how to play hosho, they will also take this opportunity to share stories and answer questions you may have.
Level: All welcome
Prerequisites: None. Also beneficial for experienced players.
Class size: Unlimited
Needed: Hosho and earplugs.Singing and Hosho
Tute and Irene Chigamba Sun. 1:00-3:00pm
See "Singing" for workshop description.
Beginning Hosho for Marimba
Mary Ellen Cuthbertson Fri. 3:30-4:30pm; Sat. 1:00-2:00pm
This will be an introduction to hosho technique and rhythms. Participants will learn about the important and exciting role of hosho in a marimba ensemble.
Level: beginning
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 30
Needed: hosho and earplugsBeginning/Intermediate Hosho
Stephen Golovnin Sun. 1:00-2:30pm
In this workshop we will cover tsaba and muchangoyo hosho patterns, with a special focus on minanzi. We will talk about how to listen and go after the right sound. Anyone attending this workshop needs to agree to buy a hosho listening tape, to be sold for $2 during the workshop. This tape will help you hear what sound to aim for.
Level: beginning/intermediate
Prerequisites: no experience necessary, but this workshop will also be helpful for intermediate players
Max Participants: 30
Needed: earplugs, hosho and $2 for workshop listening tapeAdvanced Hosho: Dancing Hosho
Ona Mai Kyrie (Fiona Connon) Fri. 3:30-5:00pm; Sat. 9:00-10:30am
Bring your hosho and let's come together to learn the power of using your whole body to extend your musical instrument. (I will not be going over the basics of minanzi/mbira rhythm.)
Level: intermediate/advanced
Prerequisites: comfort with playing minanzi/mbira rhythm
Max Participants: 12
Needed: hosho and earplugs
Mbira Singing: Nhema Musasa
Erica Azim Sun. 10:00-11:00am
Learn a selection of traditional lyrics for Nhema Musasa ("Cutting branches to make a temporary shelter"). Nhema Musasa is one of the most popular Shona mbira classics.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none; highly recommended for beginning mbira players
Max Participants: unlimitedIntroduction to Mbira Ear Training
Erica Azim Sun. 1:00-2:30pm
Learn how to listen to mbira music in a Shona way through singing what the mbira is playing. You may request a piece you would like us to sing.
Level: introductory; all welcome
Prerequisites: none; highly recommended for mbira players of all levels
Max Participants: unlimitedSolo Mbira/Marimba Singing
Chris Berry Fri. 1:15-2:45pm
This workshop will focus on solo singing to accompany mbira or marimba. First we will learn elements of traditional Shona solo singing. We will also look at rhythmical and melodic ways of incorporating English lyrics without it feeling foreign to the music.
Level: all levels
Prerequisites: none (participants will receive more from the workshop if they have some familiarity with mbira singing.)
Max Participants: 18Mbira Singing: Bembero and Pasimupindu
Julia Chigamba Sat. 9:00-10:00am
Come and learn some of the words to Julia's father's compositions, Bembero and Pasimupindu.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 30Singing and Hosho
Tute and Irene Chigamba Sun. 1:00-3:00pm
Using your voice as your instrument, you will learn to sing some lovely and simple songs that are old, old favorites of Tute's and Irene's. They will be delighted to share the stories behind the songs, as well as teach you how to use your voice to sing out along with the other instruments you already play, like drums, mbira and marimba. Tute will also instruct you in how to play the hosho and would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Level: All welcome
Prerequisites: None. Also beneficial for experienced singers.
Class size: Unlimited Needed: Hosho and earplugs.Mbira Singing: Bangidza
Musikewa Chingodza Fri. 1:15-3:15pm (Teaching assistant: Jennifer Kyker)
Musikewa will teach many different singing parts to the mbira song Bangidza. He will also talk about the role of mbira music in Shona society and will answer any questions from participants.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 30
Mbira Dance and Song
Musikewa Chingodza Fri. 3:30-5:30pm; Sun. 1:00-3:00pm
See "Dance" workshops for description.Singing and Drumming: Mhande: Traditional Rhythms of Zimbabwe
Musikewa Chingodza Sat. 1:00-3:00pm; Sun. 10:00-11:30am (Teaching assistant: Jennifer Kyker)
Musikewa will teach Mhande, traditional drum rhythms, and songs that go with them.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: some African drumming experience necessary if you bring a drum (ten drums max). Otherwise no experience necessary.
Max Participants: 35
Needed: drum if you have one; ten drums maximumBeginning Shona Song
Rujeko Dumbutshena Sun. 10:00-11:00am
Songs that can be sung a cappella or with drumming, hosho or marimba accompaniment. Learn one or two songs from the Mashonaland region of Zimbabwe. If you can talk, you can sing.
Level: beginning
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 15Intermediate Choral Singing: Makwayera
Sheasby Matiure Fri. 3:30-5:30pm; Sun. 1:00-3:00pm
This class will introduce contemporary choral music of Zimbabwe, covering gospel and traditional and in both Shona and Ndebele. Makwayera (meaning "choir") is an African style of choral singing that developed when native Zimbabweans combined elements of their traditional vocal music with the western four-part harmony brought to the region by missionaries.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: some singing experience, especially in choral music
Max Participants: 50Two Songs From Dumi's Youth
Maria Minnaar Sat. 1:00-2:30pm
Back in the 1960s, before he came to the United States, Dumisani Maraire composed church music. Some of these pieces continued to be sung long after he left Zimbabwe. Here are two of his songs that I grew up with: Hosana Mwana Wamwari and Ngarikudzwe Zuva.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: just enjoy singing!
Max Participants: 25
Needed: drums and hosho are encouragedBeginning/Intermediate Singing: Songs From South Africa
Maria Minnaar Sun. 10:00-11:30am
See "Cross-Cultural" for workshop description.
Intermediate/Advanced Drumming: Jiti Rhythm
Chris Berry Sun. 10:00-11:30am
Jiti is a much-played rhythm all over Zimbabwe and even in parts of Mozambique. Each region has its own unique way of playing this rhythm. In this class we will learn my arrangement of the rhythm that incorporates the different styles of the regions I have visited over the years.
Level: intermediate/advanced
Prerequisites: ability to hear and play kutsinhira offbeat rhythmical patterns.
Max Participants: 16Drum and Hosho
Irene Chigamba Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
Drumming and hosho are fundamental to the traditional way of life in Zimbabwe. Irene will explain and demonstrate the Kushaura and Kutsinhira of ngoma (drums) and how they fit with the hosho, so that together these can strongly lead the dancers and mbira and/or marimba players. She will also share stories and answer questions.
Level: All welcome
Prerequisites: None. Also beneficial for experienced players
Class size: Unlimited
Needed: Bring earplugs, hosho. A drum if you have one, or come to hear how it's done and simply clap along.
Singing and Drumming: Mhande: Traditional Rhythms of Zimbabwe
Musikewa Chingodza Sat. 1:00-3:00pm Sun. 10:00-11:30am
See "Singing" workshops.Jiti Dance and Drum
Rujeko Dumbutshena and Chris Berry Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
See "Dance" workshops for description. This is a dance class, but drummers can attend, dance, listen and learn!Inter./Adv. Drumming with Marimba
Irene Franco Fri. 3:30-5:00pm
We will identify signature patterns within the music and play off them by creating variations, highlighting and coloring parts, supporting the music, and creating dialogue! We will learn shangara and related rhythms, plus two rhythms for minanzi and tsaba pieces. We'll aim to look at drumming with Zomba, Chiradza, Shaurmako and Nyama Ye Kugocha.
Level: intermediate/advanced
Prerequisites: must play marimbas, drum or other percussion
Max Participants: 50
Needed: drumInter./Adv. Drumming with Mbira
Irene Franco Fri. 1:15-2:45pm
See "Drumming with Marimba" above for description. This class will cover the same material but focus on drumming with mbira.
Level: intermediate/advanced
Prerequisites: intermediate level of drumming experience
Max Participants: 50
Needed: drum
Storytelling, Music and Games with Children
Irene Chigamba Fri. 1:15-3:15pm;
Irene would love to meet your children and show them games, tell them stories and sing them songs from Zimbabwe.
All children welcome!
Unlimited class size.Beginning Dance: Dine Dance
Rujeko Dumbutshena Sat. 1:00-2:30pm; Sun. 1:00-2:30pm
See "Dance" workshops for description.
Children's Marimba Workshop
Rick Palmer Sun. 10:00-11:30am
I will teach either Nungwe or another beginning piece adapted for children. I will also lead rhythm games, clapping, stomping, pass the rhythm, etc.
Level: beginning
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 12
Preventing Physical Injuries
Mary Ellen Cuthbertson Sun. 1:00-2:30pm
Learn playing techniques, physical therapies and other factors to help you play marimba, hosho or mbira without hurting your wrists or arms. This will be a "hands on" session with lots of stretches. Individual critiques may be possible, depending on the number of participants.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: appropriate for beginners through experienced players
Max Participants: 50
Needed: optional: marimba mallets, mbira, or hoshoAcoustics of Music
Stephen Golovnin Sat. 1:00-3:00pm
An introduction to the acoustical science of sound. We will discuss the fundamentals of sound production, tuning theory and practical physics of musical instrument design. Differences and similarities between African music and music from other cultures will be examined.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 30
Needed: pencil and paperLecture: Tuning of the Mbira
Stephen Golovnin Fri. 3:30-5:30pm
What is nyamaropa tuning? Why are there so many types of nyamaropa? What's a dambatsoko? How does the pre-'95 gandanga differ from Chigamba's more recent tunings? What is mbira dzi ne musana? What is marimba tuning on mbira? What do the older styles of tuning sound like? Why a duck? What are the standard mbira tunings in North America? What the heck is dongonda? What is standard nyunga nyunga tuning? Okay, okay, one question at a time.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: 30
Needed: pencil and paper
Open Forum: Music without Politics: Surviving the Marimba Scene
Facilitator: Stephen Golovnin
Sun. 10:00-11:30am (no charge)
Bring your thoughts, ideas, and an open mind to this Open Forum facilitated by longtime marimba and mbira player Stephen Golovnin. This discussion/forum is free of charge. Everyone is welcome.A Survey of Popular Music in Zimbabwe from 1890-1990
Claire Jones Fri. 1:15-2:45pm
An ethnomusicological survey of popular or non-traditional styles of music in Zimbabwe, with lots of recorded examples. The historical development of different styles will be discussed with reference to the colonial era, the second Chimurenga (armed struggle) and independent Zimbabwe. This is basically the same presentation Claire gave at the 1994 festival in Portland.
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: unlimitedTeaching Zimbabwean Music Responsibly: A Workshop/Discussion for Americans
Claire Jones and Sheree Seretse Sat. 3:30-5:30pm (no charge)
What does it mean for Americans to teach music that derives from African culture? Co-leaders Sheree Seretse and Claire Jones will share their perspectives on the issues and responsibilities of Americans teaching Zimbabwean music, followed by discussion. Experienced teachers, as well as those who are new to teaching, are encouraged to participate.
Original Gumboot Dance and Song: Yayalode
Irene Franco Sun. 10:00-11:30am
This original gumboot dance and song contain signatures of Shona and West African music and dance, as well as South African gumboot dance. Its underlying pattern is clavé. It's an example of "What goes in comes out." Recipe: Ghana, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Canada, Philippines, Holland, (my family) ... result: Yayalode!
Level: all welcome
Prerequisites: none
Max Participants: unlimited
Needed: bells, clavé, gumboots, shakersIntermediate Marimba: Mbube (Wimoweh)
Kite Giedraitis Sat. 1:00-3:30pm
Mbube is a Zulu song dating from 1939 which became popularized in America as Wimoweh. I will be teaching my marimba arrangement of this song. I will also teach the Zulu singing.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: ability to play ten songs on marimba
Max Participants: 8
Beginning/Intermediate Singing: Songs From South Africa
Maria Minnaar Sun. 10:00-11:30am
A selection of songs in four parts in the Zulu language, from which the Sindebele language of Zimbabwe originates. Songs may include Tshotsholosa, Juba Lam, Haki Sheba and others.
Level: beginning/intermediate
Prerequisites: some experience singing in parts helpful, but not essential
Max Participants: 25Intermediate Marimba: Singonke, from Mozambique
Rick Palmer Sun. 1:00-3:30pm
I learned this piece from Farai Gezi when I was in Harare with Marimba Muzuva. The piece comes from Mozambique.
Level: intermediate
Prerequisites: an intermediate level of skill on marimba
Max Participants: 10
Workshops and schedules are subject to change.
Erica Azim fell in love with Shona mbira music when she first heard it at the age of 16. In 1974, Erica became one of the first Americans to study mbira in Zimbabwe. Her teachers have included Ambuya Beauler Dyoko, Cosmas Magaya, Mondrek Muchena, Ephat Mujuru, Irene Chigamba, Tute Chigamba, Forward Kwenda and Chris Mhlanga. Erica currently teaches mbira workshops throughout the United States and at an internationally-attended mbira camp at her home in Berkeley, California. She also directs the non-profit organization MBIRA, which makes field recordings available to mbira students around the world and provides financial support to Zimbabwean mbira players and instrument makers.
Nathan Beck has recently returned from Zimbabwe, where he studied music for four months. Nathan was a member of Boka Marimba for many years. He also visited Zimbabwe for 11 months in 1996-97, and studied with a number of people, including Cosmas Magaya. While in Zimbabwe during that first trip, he spent most of his time studying with Tute Chigamba and then had the opportunity to play with the Chigamba family ensemble Mhembero for the last few months of his stay there.
Chris Berry was 13 when his introduction to African drumming set him on a musical pathway that would eventually lead to the number one spot on Zimbabwe's hit picklist. For the past nine years Chris has spent his time between Zimbabwe and the United States. When in Zimbabwe, Chris acts as the mbira player and assistant for the Mhondoro spirit Nuandu in Chiriseri village. He also plays at ceremonies and functions all around the country. Outside of Africa, Chris tours internationally, performing with his band Panjea and teaching music and the ancient universal wisdoms from the elders and spirit mediums of Zimbabwe.
Michael Breez began studying marimba with Dr. Dumisani Maraire in 1978. He currently travels to work with groups throughout the Pacific Northwest, Canada and California. Michael co-founded the Rufaro School of Marimba in 1990. He has co-produced two CDs with Musasa Marimba Ensemble, where he is credited with several compositions and arrangements.
Irene Chigamba, the daughter of Tute Chigamba, is the artistic director of Mhembero, the Chigamba family's dance and mbira ensemble. A self-taught mbira player, she is recognized as one of the finest in Zimbabwe. From her family, she has also learned much about Zimbabwean folk dance. Further experience as a member of the former National Dance Company of Zimbabwe has given Irene a large body of knowledge of the dances of other provinces of her country.
Julia Chigamba is a long-time member of Mhembero, the Chigamba family dance and mbira ensemble. A native Zimbabwean and daughter of the highly respected gwenyambira Tute Chigamba, she has grown up in the traditions of Shona music and dance. On her first trip to the United States, she is excited about sharing her knowledge of Shona music and dance, and continuing her father's work of teaching their family tradition in North America.
Tute Chigamba was born in 1939 into a family of traditional musicians and spiritual worshippers. Both of his parents were musicians — his father was a drummer and his mother a singer and dancer. During the struggle for Zimbabwean independence, Mr. Chigamba was called upon to play at ceremonies asking Zimbabwe's great spirits to guide and protect her freedom fighters in the jungle. His primary instrument is the Gandanga style mbira, and he has written many of his own compositions. He also performs with an ensemble of eleven family members — Mhembero, the Shona word for celebration. In addition to his composing and performing, Mr. Chigamba is well-known for his mbira building. His instruments are highly sought after in Zimbabwe and other locations.
Musekiwa Chingodza was born into a family of great mbira players in Mwangara village, Murewa, Zimbabwe, in 1970. He began playing mbira at the age of five and is self-taught. Through listening to other gwenyambira, or great mbira players, he developed a strong attachment to and love for mbira music. He says, "Our music is both medicine and food, as mbira has the power to heal and to provide for people. Mbira pleases both the living and the dead." In 1991 Musekiwa was a key member of the band Panjea, founded by Chris Berry. He composed the hit song "Ganda" on Panjea's Zimbabwean album. Currently Musekiwa teachs mbira at Prince Edward School in Harare. He is an excellent singer, dancer and drummer and plays both mbira dzavadzimu and nyunga nyunga.
Lora Lue Chiorah-Dye has taught for the Washington State Arts Commission for over 20 years, sharing her knowledge of music, song, dance, story-telling and children's games. She has performed for the past 25 years either with Sukutai Marimba and Dance Ensemble or with Dumi and Minanzi Marimba Ensemble. Lora was born and grew up in Zimbabwe, and now lives in Seattle. (She is also a graduate of Port Townsend High School!)
Mary Ellen Cuthbertson lives near Boulder, Colorado, and is deeply grateful for her involvement in Zimbabwean music. She teaches marimba and mbira and plays with the band Chimanimani; she also played with Chiwoniso Marimba in Boulder and with several student bands in Seattle. She started learning marimba in 1989 and mbira and hosho in 1990. She has successfully treated her own "marimba elbow" and "hosho wrist."
Rujeko Dumbutshena was born and raised among the Shona people of Zimbabwe and has a rich life steeped in the ancient music and dance traditions of her people. In 1991 Rujeko left Zimbabwe, and since that time she has taught classes, lectured and performed nationally as well as internationally. She is currently teaching African dance at the University of New Mexico and performing with Panjea as well as directing her own dance company, Vanhu Vamwe.
Irene Franco was a member of Marimba Muzuva from 1995 to 1997, primarily playing drums for the group. She has been dancing and drumming since 1981 and is currently a member of Island Rhythm (with Gordy Ryan of Olatunji's Drums of Passion) and Dreaming the World. Irene teaches classes in drumming, trance dance, gumboot dance, and song and rhythm circles. She is currently studying West African music and continuing to learn the mbira. She is interested in music and ritual.
Kite Giedraitis has been playing Shona music since 1986 and began teaching in 1989. He was an original member of Boka Marimba, playing with them for three years before traveling in Zimbabwe for a year and Ghana for three months. He founded Village Spirit in Portland, Oregon, in 1992. Kite has also helped to create the following bands through his classes: Dancing Trees, Kukuva, Flying Safari Ants, Chiremba, White Rhino and Zimba.
Stephen Golovnin has been playing marimba and mbira for "a while." Major teaching influences came from Dumisani Maraire and Erica Kundidzora. A bit of a renegade, Stephen adhers to the faith that music will find its purest expression through an open heart and and open mind.
Marian Grebanier has been playing marimba since 1987 as one of the original members of Boka Marimba of Portland, Oregon. She began studying mbira in the early '90s, primarily with Erica Azim. She has had additional lessons with Ephat Mujuru, Nathan Beck, Chris Berry, Claire Jones, Tute Chigamba, Wiri Chigonga, Cosmas Magaya and Joy Shulman.
Claire Jones began studying with Dumisani Maraire in 1976 and started teaching marimba and mbira in 1979. She lived in Zimbabwe from 1985-1990, where she performed mbira with Mhuri Yekwa Muchena and taught biology and marimba! in government schools. She is currently in the PhD program in ethnomusicology at the University of Washington. She is also a member of Mahonyera and teacher of mbira and marimba.
Jennifer Kyker began to play Shona marimba at age 10 and mbira at age 14. She has lived in Zimbabwe for 14 months in order to study mbira, hosho, and Shona language and song. Jennifer has performed with various artists both in Zimbabwe and in the USA, including Tute Chigamba and Mhembero, Thomas Mapfumo and the Blacks Unlimited, and Chris Berry and Panjea. She is currently a member of both Kudana Marimba and the Glamour Boys de Mbare, a Shona band based in New York City. Jennifer will be assisting Musekiwa Chingodza with his teaching during Zimfest.
Joel Laviolette has played Shona mbira for a few years and also Shona guitar. He studied in Zimbabwe for four months last year, mainly with Wiriranai Chingonga, Garidziva Chigamba and Newton Gwara. He currently plays guitar, mbira and hosho with Wagogo in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Joel Lindstrom has been playing marimba for more than eight years and has been teaching for more than four. As the director of the Kutsinhira Community Marimba Center in Eugene, Oregon, he's had a chance to learn a great deal about the history of marimba and mbira in the Northwest and in Zimbabwe. He feels that a knowledge of history helps keep Zimbabwean music in North America a living tradition.
Ona Mai Kyrie (formerly known as Fiona Connon) first started playing Shona music on marimba in 1992, when she helped to found Marimba Muzuva. Her interest soon led to playing mbira, composing marimba pieces, and dancing hosho. Ona visited Zimbabwe in 1994, and she feels it is time to go back to Zimbabwe again to learn the Shona language and to study the music to greater depths.
Peter Masundire grew up in Zimbabwe and has been giving individual tutorials in Shona language in Seattle since 1998. His lessons are based on the Zezura dialect of the Shona language.
Paul Mataruse is from Zimbabwe, but he has been living and studying in North America for the past three years. Currently he is studying chemistry at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. Paul has been playing marimba for 14 years and was taught by his father at the age of six. Paul has taught in schools in and around the Mashonaland West Province of Zimbabwe as well as in several primary schools in Harare from 1992 to 1995. This year he will introduce exciting new personal compositions to the workshops he teaches.
Sheasby Matiure is currently an artist in residence with the International Vocal Ensemble at Indiana University. In Zimbabwe, Mr. Matiure is a music lecturer at Seke Teacher Training College, just outside Harare. Mr. Matiure has also acted as manager and artistic director of the Zimbabwe National Dance Company. He is a highly respected musician, adept at playing mbira, ngoma, hosho and marimba.
Maria Minnaar grew up in Zimbabwe where her love of its music and culture was nurtured by her father, an ethnomusicologist. Playing marimbas since age 14, Maria currently teaches two community bands in Groveton, Texas. She has produced a marimba music CD with her previous youth band from Brenham, Texas, and after her father's death in 1993, she began manufacturing marimba instruments in order to continue his work.
Rick Palmer is a founding member of Marimba Muzuva and has been performing Zimbabwean music for six years. His interest in African music has taken him to Ghana, West Africa and to Zimbabwe. His greatest passions are playing music, dancing, teaching and building marimbas.
Sheree Seretse loves African music and hopes to share the joy she finds in it with the world. She studied with Dumisani Maraire in 1970, began performing with him in '71 and teaching with him in '73. She has been teaching at the Langston Hughes Cultural Arts Center in Seattle since 1978, where her marimba class developed into a professional group later known as Sukutai Marimba Ensemble. Currently, she performs with Anzanga, which she founded in 1986. Sheree teaches classes on marimba, mbira, ngoma, dance and African children's games, and lectures on Shona music at Langston Hughes and around the country.
Ted Wright was raised by talking horses deep in the Gobi desert, and has recently returned from four months in Zimbabwe and Mozambique. This Marimba Muzuva member and part-time wig maker also teaches marimba, mbira and gumboot dancing.
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