adminMaria Chiguvari
WHILE for many musicians it is about producing hits that top musical charts, Pamuzinda Marimba says it is driven by creating a lasting sound that heals.
The band is made up of 12 individuals. With their music heavily drawing from culture, Pamuzinda see themselves as a portal of heritage and they are still keeping up with the ancient traditions theme.
The ensemble will headline the Afrika Festival in Birkenried, Germany, between 27-29 May.
“We officially started doing music in 1990, the journey was tough.
“The main purpose was to take people away from the streets, away from drugs and prostitution,” the band says..
Vengai Katogodo, a group member, revealed that their first breakthrough onto the international stage came in 1994.
“The music we do is a mixture of styles and fusion of music from different ethnic groups in Zimbabwe.
“We reflect a lot of our culture.
“The music reminds you about who you are and where you come from as an individual and with those around you.
“Everything of it is an experience, the message packed within is about awakening and self-introspection,” he said
Boasting traditional dances, accompanied by instruments such as marimba, mbira, ngoma, hosho and acoustic guitars, Pamuzinda Traditional Music Ensemble has performed in Belgium, France, Austria, Spain, Italy, the UK and the Netherlands, among other European countries.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter