By HRH Princess Eugene Majuru
BIRMINGHAM, UK (News of The South)– The vibrant sounds of Zimbabwean traditional music are poised to captivate audiences in Birmingham this Saturday, June 7th, as the city plays host to the much-anticipated first-ever UK Mbira Festival. Among the esteemed artists headlining this cultural extravaganza is the renowned mbira maestro, Sekuru Gabriel Makhamadzi, whose illustrious career and profound dedication to the instrument have earned him widespread acclaim.
Sekuru Makhamadzi, affectionately known as “Sekuru” (wise one), is celebrated for his masterful command of the mbira, a traditional Zimbabwean instrument often referred to as a “thumb piano,” which holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Shona people. His extensive repertoire includes captivating tracks such as “Kashiri kamambo,” showcasing his unique ability to weave intricate melodies and rhythms that resonate deeply with listeners.
Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Sekuru Makhamadzi’s musical journey began at a young age, starting with playing dried masekesa tree seed-pods as shakers and singing gospel songs while herding cattle. His passion for music led him to Harare, where he joined the Mbira group the Mighty Spiders Crew from Mbare. He further honed his craft by playing at traditional ceremonies and was mentored by Garikai Tirikoti, a renowned Zimbabwean mbira player and maker.
Sekuru Makhamadzi’s talent was soon recognized beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. He was spotted by the late legendary musician Andy Brown, who took him to the UK on tour in 2002. Since then, he has settled in the UK and Northern Ireland, continuing to champion Zimbabwean music. He is a multi-instrumentalist, also proficient in guitar, drums, percussion, and bass. His dedication to preserving and promoting Zimbabwean traditional music has seen him perform alongside some of the biggest names in African music, including the late Thomas Mapfumo, whose Blacks Unlimited band he still plays with when they tour the UK. Mapfumo himself considers Sekuru Makhamadzi’s hosho (shakers) playing an indispensable part of his band.
Beyond his individual performances, Sekuru Makhamadzi leads “Sekuru Gabriel and The Afresh Band,” an ensemble that blends Zimbabwean traditional music with diverse influences from Irish Traditional, Folk, Funk, Jazz, Latin, and Reggae. Their nine-track album, “Ndangariro,” released in 2015, demonstrates this unique fusion, incorporating instruments like the banjo, bodhrán, tin whistle, and flute to create a truly distinctive sound.
The UK Mbira Festival, taking place at the Magnet Centre in Birmingham, promises to be a spectacular showcase of Zimbabwean cultural and traditional music. The event, hosted by Lady Sekemutema, has seen smooth preparations, with Diaspora Funeral coming on board as a key sponsor. Alongside Sekuru Makhamadzi, the festival boasts an impressive lineup of artists including Zee Guvheya and Heritage band, Amadhuve, Vee Mhofu, and Linos Wengarar.
Music lovers and cultural enthusiasts from across the globe are eagerly anticipating this grand festival, which aims to attract a wider audience and foster a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of Zimbabwean mbira music. Tickets are available for purchase on the Made in Zwe website. The stage is set for a memorable celebration of tradition, innovation, and the enduring power of the mbira.
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