In Eastern and Southern Africa, there are many kinds of mbira, often accompanied by the hosho, a percussion instrument. It is often an important instrument played at religious ceremonies, …

Mbira pervades all aspects of Shona traditional culture, both sacred and secular. The most important function of mbira is as a “telephone to the spirits”, used to contact both deceased …

Shona mbira music is one of the most soulful sounds on the African continent. Originally used in spirit possession ceremonies, the iron-pronged mbira produces melodies beautiful enough to …

May 22, 2020 · The Shona name for the instrument is mbira dzavadzimu, which means ‘mbira of the ancestors.’ The mbira is played for important Shona ceremonies, such as the bira, an all …

Oct 16, 2019 · At night around 2 – 3am when the biggest ancestor spirits arrive to the ceremony the oldest and most traditional songs will be played such as ‘Bangiza’ (no translation …

Mar 31, 2025 · Nearly 20 years ago, I met an old man, VaMoyo, on the streets of Mkoba in Gweru district, Zimbabwe, while walking and playing my nyunga nyunga mbira. He stopped and …

Jan 15, 2025 · Discover the mbira, Zimbabwe’s iconic instrument, its cultural significance, and how it continues to inspire through tradition and innovation

Dec 8, 2017 · Mbira Cover - Silent Night Instrumental Silent Night Stille Nacht composed in 1818 by Franz Xaver Gruber. Lyrics were written by Joseph Mohr....more

In this accessible overview steeped in history and tradition, teacher and student Māhealani Uchiyama offers insights for learning about the mbira and actively engaging with it in an …

FREE Online Mbira Lessons, Mbira Instrument Shop and Mbira DzaVadzimu Facts with mbira master Forward Kwenda and author Andy Fowler.