Traditional music takes centre stage at African heritage exhibition
In the markets that are fast becoming a feature of urban SA’s weekend experience, there is usually a busker playing a hand-held musical instrument. It produces a sound that is quite charming. Some play it with one thumb; others use several fingers. The African thumb piano is an indigenous musical instrument that has been played for thousands of years across sub-Saharan Africa. Today, it is popularly known as a mbira. It is essentially a sound box with metal tongs that are plucked. This, and other instruments used in African traditional music, will form part of an important exhibition that will also include recordings of African folk songs that have existed for centuries. Titled For Future Generations — Hugh Tracey and the International Library for African Music, the exhibition will showcase the International Library of African Music at Rhodes University. It is the result of the efforts and dedication of one man who had the foresight and wisdom to document African traditional music i...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.