Language/Shona/Culture/Traditional-Music
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Introduction[edit | edit source]
Welcome to the lesson on Shona Culture, where we will explore the vibrant and rich traditions of the Shona people. In this lesson, we will focus on traditional music, which is an integral part of Shona culture. Traditional music plays a significant role in Shona society, as it is used for communication, entertainment, and cultural expression. By learning about traditional Shona music, you will gain a deeper understanding of the Shona language and culture. So, let's dive into the world of Shona music and discover its unique instruments and styles!
Traditional Shona Music[edit | edit source]
Instruments[edit | edit source]
Traditional Shona music is characterized by its use of various instruments, each with its own distinct sound and purpose. These instruments are often made from natural materials found in the surrounding environment. Let's explore some of the most popular traditional Shona instruments:
Mbira[edit | edit source]
The mbira is one of the most well-known and widely used instruments in traditional Shona music. It is a thumb piano consisting of a wooden soundboard with metal keys attached to it. The player plucks the keys with their thumbs, producing a melodic and rhythmic sound. The mbira is believed to have spiritual significance and is often used in religious ceremonies and social gatherings.
| Shona | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Mbira | m-bee-rah | Mbira |
| Njari | n-jah-ree | Metal keys |
| Kudeketera | koo-deh-keh-teh-rah | To pluck |
Hosho[edit | edit source]
The hosho is a percussion instrument made from a pair of gourd shells filled with seeds or stones. It is shaken or rattled to create a rhythmic accompaniment to the music. The hosho is often played alongside the mbira and is an essential component of traditional Shona music.
| Shona | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Hosho | hoh-show | Hosho |
| Njuga | n-joo-gah | Gourd shell |
| Zvidhoma | zvee-doh-mah | Seeds/stones |
Ngoma[edit | edit source]
The ngoma is a large drum that is played with the hands. It is used to provide a rhythmic foundation for traditional Shona music. The ngoma is made from a hollowed-out log with an animal skin stretched across one end. The drum is played by striking the skin with the hands, producing deep and resonant tones.
| Shona | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Ngoma | ngoh-mah | Ngoma |
| Tsikwa | tsee-kwah | Drum |
| Kutwasuka | koo-twa-soo-kah | To strike |
Styles[edit | edit source]
Traditional Shona music encompasses a wide range of musical styles, each with its own unique characteristics and cultural significance. Let's explore some of the most popular styles of traditional Shona music:
Mbira DzaVaDzimu[edit | edit source]
Mbira DzaVaDzimu, also known as "mbira of the ancestors," is a traditional style of Shona music that is deeply rooted in spiritual and ancestral beliefs. It is often played during religious ceremonies and serves as a means of communication with the ancestors. The melodies are repetitive and hypnotic, creating a trance-like state for both the players and the listeners.
Chimurenga[edit | edit source]
Chimurenga is a style of traditional Shona music that emerged during the liberation struggle in Zimbabwe. It is characterized by its powerful and politically charged lyrics, which reflect the social and political issues of the time. Chimurenga music played a significant role in mobilizing and inspiring the masses during the struggle for independence.
Sungura[edit | edit source]
Sungura is a popular style of traditional Shona music that emerged in the 1980s. It is known for its lively and upbeat rhythms, accompanied by catchy melodies and danceable beats. Sungura music often tells stories of love, relationships, and everyday life, making it relatable and enjoyable for people of all ages.
Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]
Traditional Shona music holds immense cultural significance within the Shona community. It serves as a means of cultural preservation, as it carries the stories, traditions, and values of the Shona people from one generation to the next. Through music, the Shona people express their identity, history, and spirituality.
Music plays a central role in various aspects of Shona life, including religious ceremonies, social gatherings, and rites of passage. It is believed that music has the power to connect individuals with the spiritual realm and invoke the presence of the ancestors. Traditional music is also used as a form of entertainment, bringing joy and celebration to the community.
Exercises[edit | edit source]
Now that you have learned about traditional Shona music, let's put your knowledge into practice with a few exercises:
Exercise 1: Match the Instruments Match the Shona instrument names with their corresponding English translations.
| Shona | English |
|---|---|
| Mbira | a. Gourd shell |
| Hosho | b. Drum |
| Ngoma | c. Mbira |
Solution: - Mbira → c. Mbira - Hosho → a. Gourd shell - Ngoma → b. Drum
Exercise 2: Fill in the Blanks Fill in the blanks with the correct Shona term for each instrument.
1. The ________ is a thumb piano used in traditional Shona music. 2. The ________ is a percussion instrument made from gourd shells. 3. The ________ is a large drum used to provide rhythm in traditional Shona music.
Solution: 1. Mbira 2. Hosho 3. Ngoma
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Congratulations! You have completed the lesson on traditional Shona music. You have learned about the instruments and styles that make up this vibrant aspect of Shona culture. By understanding traditional Shona music, you have gained a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the Shona people. Keep exploring and immersing yourself in the world of Shona culture, and continue your journey to becoming proficient in the Shona language!
Videos[edit | edit source]
Zimbabwe: The Soul of Mbira / Traditions of the Shona People ...[edit | edit source]
Mangwanani mambakwedza - traditional Shona songs - YouTube[edit | edit source]
Sources[edit | edit source]
- Shona music - Wikipedia
- Mbira in Shona Culture - MBIRA
- The Soul of Mbira: Music and Traditions of the Shona People of ...
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
| ◀️ Talking about Money — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Traditional Dance ▶️ |