First Event – Oct. 18th
Studio Grand
3234 Grand Avenue in Oakland
The mbira is a mystical form of music of the Shona people of Zimbabwe and is considered to have the power to provide comfort to all who experience it.
Kumu Mahea’s project Yarira MBIRA will include instruction in the mbira at low cost for the community of Oakland. It will also provide two public gatherings on either side of the 15 class series. The ultimate goals of the project are to expand the awareness of this unique and beautiful music throughout the Oakland community and to develop a core community of Oakland residents who will become mbira practitioners.
Our first event will be welcome to anyone interested in experiencing a live performance of this music. There will also be opportunities for participants to learn more about the history and practice of mbira as well as the Yarira MBIRA project. In subsequent weeks group lessons will be offered, (in most cases every other Monday) on basic playing technique and singing. The project will culminate in May 2016 with a community celebration and student concert wherein Yarira MBIRA participants will have a chance to share a song or two with the community. $10 for each hour long class. For more info email info@mahea.com.