Zimbabwean-style marimba classes provide an opportunity for students to learn music experientially. Students are introduced to traditional and contemporary songs from Zimbabwe and southern Africa. More advanced students expand their understanding of Zimbabwean culture and music through mbira dzavadzimu-style marimba arrangements, exploring marimba parts and how they relate to the original mbira piece. Private instruction is also available. Drumming Classes Drumming classes introduce students to traditional and contemporary drumming arrangements from Zimbabwe, southern Africa, West Africa, Haiti, and Cuba. Students learn a variety of drum, bell, and shaker patterns that together form the textured percussive sounds of African and African-influenced drumming. Private instruction is also available. Mbira Dzavadzimu Lessons Private lessons are offered for students wishing to deepen their understanding of Shona-style music through the Shona peoples' traditional instrument. Consisting of 22 to 28 metal keys mounted on a hardwood soundboard, the mbira dzavadzimu is played with two thumbs and the right forefinger. The resulting polyrhythmic melodies form the structure upon which much Zimbabwean-style marimba music is based. Singing Classes Using voices only, singing classes explore songs and rhythms from both Africa and the Caribbean. Students take turns singing songs and vocalizing drum, shaker and bell rhythms. Special attention is given to proper singing technique. Private instruction is also available. Language Classes Shona language classes introduce students to simple greetings, basic sentence structure, simple verb conjugation, and general vocabulary, as well as a cultural context in which to place this knowledge. Special emphasis is given to understanding the meanings of lyrics to Shona songs and their cultural significance.
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Marimba Classes