In this ensemble students will learn mbira, traditional African thumb piano, with a focus on Shona music from Zimbabwe. Ensemble participants learn and perform interlocking rhythms, melodies, and improvisation through listening and observation. Knowledge of traditional western music notation is not required. The ensemble also experiments with combinations of other more traditional instruments, and performs in a variety of contexts from traditional Shona music, to rock, to techno! No previous experience in mbira is required. This is a small ensemble and space is highly limited.
Contact Prof. Akiva Zamcheck for more information: zamcheca@lafayette.edu
Register for MUS 152: Chamber Music Ensembles