Ubuntu Mbira

Summary

The website content introduces the "Ubuntu Mbira" series, showcasing the traditional Zimbabwean music of the Shona people and its cultural significance.

Abstract

The article titled "Ubuntu Mbira" delves into the rich, earthy music produced by the Ubuntu band, featuring the Mbira instrument, also known as the "telephone to the spirits." The music is described as a unique blend of rhythmically plucked metal keys, percussion from small drums, gourd rattles, and handclaps, accompanied by distinctive vocals. This music is deeply rooted in the Shona culture of Zimbabwe, serving both as a means of communication with the spirits for blessings and as a protective measure against malevolent forces. The piece also acknowledges the contributions of Indubala Kachhawa and Suntonu Bhadra in promoting the understanding and appreciation of Ubuntu music, with "A Promising Dawn" reigniting the author's interest. The article is part of a series that aims to embody the philosophy of "I am because you are," with future titles to be featured monthly.

Opinions

The author expresses a profound appreciation for the Mbira music, describing it as both eerie and beautiful.
The Mbira is portrayed not just as a musical instrument but as a spiritual conduit for the Shona people.
The article conveys a sense of gratitude towards Indubala Kachhawa for highlighting the meaning of Ubuntu and towards Suntonu Bhadra for providing a platform for sharing these insights.
There is an open invitation for readers to engage with and contribute to the monthly "Ubuntu series," suggesting a community-driven approach to exploring and celebrating diverse cultures through music.

I am because you are

Photo: James G. Brennan.

The wheels of the mp3 player turned or maybe it was a disc in the tape machine producing the most earthy organic music I had ever heard, Mbira, Ubuntu was the name of the Band and music.

The Mbira instrument, rhythmically plucked metal keys inside a hardwood bowl drum for amplification.

Small drums along with gourd rattles Accompanied by handclaps providing the percussion, rhythmical vocals sung in an unfamiliar fashion I had never come across before, both eerie and beautiful.

The Mbira, “telephone to the spirits” for advice, blessings and good crops, also, to chase away bad spirits in this beautiful music which amplifies the spirit of the Shona people of Zimbabwe.

Ubuntu Meaning I am because you are.

Procession at Mujuru Bira 1971 — photo by R. Garfias

A shout out to Indubala Kachhawa who had highlighted the meaning of Ubuntu back in January, with “A Promising Dawn” which rekindled my interest in Mbira Ubuntu music.

This piece ‘Ubuntu Mbira’ is kicking off the Ubuntu series in the spirit of “I am because you are”. A new title will be put forward each week. Next weeks title will be “Across Oceans of Hope.”

Please feel free to join in these monthly series devised by Suntonu. Let’s see what we come up with.

Thank you as always to Suntonu Bhadra for giving my words a platform. 🙏 Thank you all for reading and your precious time. Always. J. 🙏✨

POETRY UBUNTU SERIES

Ubuntu Mbira

I am because you are