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Mbira is the foundation of Zimbabremabwe, and central to Zimbabwean Shona tradition. Mbira is experiencing a resurgence in popularity in Zimbabwe, and is common in popular music as well as continuing in its spiritual role. In the UK and many other places in the world it is also becoming popular.
We have just produced the first in a series of course packages for learning Mbira. It consists of a book containing 11 songs in their first variation (kushaura). Each song is notated in Mbira Tab (see example) has an explanation of the traditional context and meaning behind the song, and has vocals. To compliment this there is an audio CD with each song recorded, first in instrumental form and then again including vocals. The book also has interesting interviews and biographies with the authors, Linos Wengara Magaya and Tim Dziva Lloyd.
The combination of melody, rythm, spiritual depth and user friendly size makes mbira an appealing instrument for those wishing to learn another music. We teach in Brighton and surrounding areas, and are arranging courses in London. We can help provide an instrument if needed. For those in other parts of the country we will try to help you find people to play with.
We recently taught for a week at the SOAS University Mbira summerschool workshop, July 2008, below is some student feedback:
'A fantastic introduction to Mbira, with a variety of songs and rythms and an introduction to cultural aspects too'
  
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