Mbira dzavadzimu

Event Center BC

The Mbira dzavadzimu is a lamellophone used by the Shona people originating in Zimbabwe. I conducted research on the Mbira to understand both the cultural significance and the expertise required to play the instrument. Gathering sources and texts was the first step in my research. I then received Mbira lessons from Erica Azim who has traveled to Zimbabwe many times and learned the instrument directly from native Zimbabweans. Learning to play the instrument helped further my understanding of the instrument in Shona culture. Finally, I researched the singing that accompanies Mbira music. I sought out the lyrics to many Mbira songs and analyzed their meanings.