Language/Shona/Culture/Traditional-Music
Introduction
Music has always been an important part of Shona culture. Traditional Shona music is characterized by a mix of rhythms and melodies, which are derived from a variety of musical instruments. In this lesson, we will explore the world of traditional Shona music, including popular instruments and styles.
History of Shona Music
Music has always played an important role in the Shona people's lives. It has served as a means of communication, a form of entertainment, and has been used in various ceremonies and rituals. Traditional Shona music is based on the use of pentatonic scales, and features a mix of rhythms and melodies derived from a variety of musical instruments.
Shona music has been influenced by a variety of other African musical styles, including Zulu, Ndebele, and Chewa. During the colonial period, Shona music was further influenced by Western music, particularly gospel and jazz music. Today, Shona music is a vibrant part of Zimbabwean culture and continues to evolve.
Popular Shona Musical Instruments
There are many traditional musical instruments used in Shona music. Here are some of the most popular:
Mbira
The mbira is a traditional Shona instrument that consists of a wooden soundboard with a series of metal keys. It is played by plucking the keys with the thumbs, while the hands are used to manipulate the sound by pressing down on the soundboard or changing the position of the hands. The mbira is often used in spiritual and cultural ceremonies and is considered by many to be a sacred instrument.
| Shona | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Mbira | [ᵐbira] | Mbira |
| Zanza or Sansa | [zanza] [saᶻsa] | Rattles |
Hosho
The Hosho is a percussion instrument that consists of a dried pumpkin shell filled with small seeds or beans. It is often played alongside the mbira and provides a rhythmic accompaniment to the music.
| Shona | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Hosho | [hoʃo] | Hosho |
Ngoma
The ngoma is a large wooden drum that is played with both hands. It provides a deep, resonant sound and serves as the foundation for many Shona musical rhythms.
| Shona | Pronunciation | English |
|---|---|---|
| Ngoma | [ŋoma] | Drum |
Styles of Shona Music
There are several different styles of Shona music. Here are some of the most popular:
Jit
Jit is a popular style of Shona music that originated in the 1980s. It combines traditional Shona rhythms with influences from other African musical styles as well as from Western rock and pop music. Jit is characterized by its energetic rhythms and uplifting melodies, and often features a full band with instruments such as drums, guitar, and bass.
Sungura
Sungura is a style of Shona music that developed in the 1980s and 1990s. It is characterized by its fast-paced rhythms and its use of the electric guitar as the lead instrument. Sungura often features a full band with instruments such as drums, bass, and keyboard.
Chimurenga
Chimurenga is a style of Shona music that originated in the 1970s. It was created by the legendary musician Thomas Mapfumo and is known for its socially conscious lyrics and its use of traditional Shona instruments alongside modern instruments like the electric guitar and keyboards.
Chimurenga played an important role in the independence movement in Zimbabwe and continues to be an important part of Zimbabwean culture.
Conclusion
Traditional Shona music is a vibrant and important part of Zimbabwean culture. It is characterized by a mix of rhythms and melodies, and features a variety of traditional instruments like the mbira, hosho, and ngoma. Shona music continues to evolve and develop, and new styles like Jit and Sungura have added to its rich musical tradition.
Videos
Zimbabwe: The Soul of Mbira / Traditions of the Shona People ...
Mangwanani mambakwedza - traditional Shona songs - YouTube
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