ZIMBABWEAN marimba ensemble TAMBO is expanding its international footprint following a successful two-week tour of South Africa, adding to a growing list of performances showcasing the country's indigenous music on regional and international stages.
The ensemble recently performed at the National Arts Festival in Makhanda, collaborating with the Rhodes University Marimba Band (RUmband) in two productions — NHOVO at the International Library of African Music (ILAM) and Manenji at the Black Power Station.
The productions blended Zimbabwean marimba, mbira, amadinda, Nyanga panpipes, drums, percussion, dance and storytelling, celebrating indigenous knowledge systems while highlighting the shared musical heritage of Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Beyond the performances, TAMBO conducted workshops for Rhodes University students, sharing performance techniques, composition methods and indigenous approaches to music education. Members also toured ILAM, one of the world’s largest repositories of African musical instruments and archives, exploring collections that document the continent's rich musical traditions.
The South African tour capped a busy year for the ensemble. Earlier this year, TAMBO performed alongside global internet personality IShowSpeed in Harare’s Mbare suburb, introducing Zimbabwean marimba music to millions of online viewers. The group also featured at this year’s Fête de la Musique, hosted by Alliance Française as part of World Music Day celebrations.
Ethnomusicologist and TAMBO director Richie Musambasi said the ensemble aims to become a leading platform for African musical exchange while preserving indigenous traditions.
“Our vision is to grow TAMBO into a leading platform for African musical exchange, education and cultural preservation,” Musambasi said.
“This year, we will expand our reach through the annual Accent Marimba Camp in Victoria Falls from December 6 to 12, bringing together musicians from across the region.
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“Looking ahead, we aim to build a sustainable network of camps, performances and educational initiatives that connect communities while celebrating Africa’s rich musical heritage.”
Musambasi said the annual camp would continue providing young musicians with mentorship, collaboration and intensive training in indigenous African music traditions.
Formed in 2022, TAMBO will celebrate its fourth anniversary on December 3. The ensemble comprises Musambasi, Sabelo Musindo, Munyaradzi Mawondo, Mationaishe Mudzinganyama, Tatenda Chakwizira, Takunda Zishiri, Shayne Shumbambiri, Kudakwashe Mudewe, Kunashe M’chenje and Joseph Warinda.
The group also considers fashion designer Felostencia Zisengwe, who creates its performance attire, as its honorary 11th member.
TAMBO performs compositions by Bishop Andile and Sabelo alongside contemporary African music and has represented Zimbabwe in Mauritius, Malawi, Kenya, the United Arab Emirates and South Africa.
Through performances, workshops and educational programmes, the ensemble continues to promote Zimbabwean music while fostering cultural exchange across the continent.
