Mbira takes centre stage

Diner for a cultural musical flirtation.
Coming onto the scene, after a long time, the gig will afford mbira lovers a unique opportunity to listen to the addictive and soothing cultural sounds, right in the heart of the capital city.
A similar gig was last held in Harare at the Pamuzinda Highway Xscape in 2009, which featured several mbira groups including the late veteran percussionist and renowned mbira player, Adam Chisvo.

However, this time it will be a different setting, but within the same spiritual connection.
The three groups – the inimitable Mbira dzeNharira, Mawungira eNharira and Dzimbahwe Mbira Crew – are expected to serenade mbira lovers with their beat, and in the process enable them to shake off the cold that has pervaded their bodies for the past two months.

What makes the gig special and something to look forward to, is that the three mbira outfits are no strangers to such events and they command a huge following.
So a combined effort under one roof will certainly be what the doctor ordered for mbira fans, who don’t get as many such opportunities to make merry with their icons through music and dance.

One of the show organisers said the gig was meant to create space for mbira lovers to wine and dine while interacting with their cultural music icons through music.
“Most musical shows that are currently being held are not for mbira, leaving a yawning gap for the cultural music lovers who also want enjoy this genre.”

“We also want to promote mbira music by holding regular shows for our patrons,” said the organiser.
Revellers should expect to dance along to “mbira dzechidzimba”, “mhemberwa” and “makwiringwindo”, something that Mawungira Enharira does so well, with so much passion, ingenuity and verve.

Songs that fans should look forward to from the outfit include “Kakomo KeNharira”, “Matendera”, “Toenda KwaMbuya” and the spiritually soothing “Chitovapasi” that Nyamasvisva executes expertly, such many a patron in any auditorium goes on the dance floor as if in a trance.

On the other hand, Mbira DzeNharira is also expected to dish out all their artistic verve and prove that they are still among Zimbabwe’s best mbira outfits.
In Zimbabwe, mbira music is regaining its popularity although the genre has for a long time been associated with traditional functions, it is now being played for purely artistic reasons.
Except for a few, most of the mbira songs are folk songs that have been passed on from generation to generation.