MUFARO MARIMBA
Mufaro means “joy” in the language spoken by the originators of this amazing music of Zimbabwe.
Mufaro Marimba plays music primarily from Zimbabwe and southern Africa. The music we play is joyous, infectious, fun to play and fun to dance to and to clap along with. There are smiles all around! The musical parts fit together like a puzzle into one wonderful incredible sound.
THE MUSIC….. the exciting, dynamic, poly rhythmic music we play has a long traditional connection in Africa. Many are like the folk songs that we grew up here and we know them almost unconsciously; music is part of everyone’s language, community, souls and culture.
Our instruments are handmade wooden marimbas fashioned after those first made and refined in Zimbabwe around 1960.
The maranka gourd shakers we use are called “hosho” and are an essential part of this music from Zimbabwe.
Dr. Dumisani Maraire, introduced the music to the west coast of North America in the 1970’s and the musical tradition of its own was born in the Pacific Northwest that has spread around the world. We give blessings and thanks for this music!
As we have changed over the years and incorporated a few new sounds, we are blessed with the amazing guitar work of David Morin, a brilliant musician who has been part of Victoria’s best musical bands for decades. His guitar work is now integral to our sound.
Check out our Shows page to find out about our Upcoming Shows!
Mufaro would like to honour and acknowledge our teachers. We have been very lucky to have had several wonderful teachers in the past and we send our thanks and deepest respect to….
Garadziva Chigamba – Garadziva has always been willing to share the music with us, with an open and generous heart. Thank you, Garadziva.
Sandy Ockenden – Sandy taught us in the early days. With his patience we learned our first songs and he gave us a gentle push to perform. Sandy guided us through the building of our first marimbas. A kind and generous man and extraordinary teacher. Thank you, Sandy and it was great to see you in the summer of 2022. Thanks for the jam!
Ted Wright – Ted helped us out in the early times too. Ted is still one of regular teachers and always willing to help; we are grateful for his generosity, kindness, easy smile and warm heart. Thank you, Ted.
Ona Connon – Ona helped us understand the rhythms and how very important hosho is to the music – the heartbeat of the music. A rare and beautiful lady. Thank you, Ona.
Dean Samuel taught us his song “July in Winter” and made some of our beautiful new marimbas. A craftsman. Thank you, Dean.
Musekiwa Chingodza – A very patient man. Gave us his version of “Chikende” Thank you, Musekiwa.