Dumisani Mararire (left), Ephat Mujuru (right)

Photo by Greg Plachta

Dumisani Maraire (mbira, voice) was one of the most important musicians and teachers of traditional music from Zimbabwe. 

Maraire was born into a musical family in Chakohwa village, Chief Mutambara area, Chimanimani district, south of Mutare. His mother, a Xhosa from South Africa, and his father, a Shona from Zimbabwe were his first music teachers. Maraire's earliest contacts with Shona music traditions came from his immediate family, and from village musicians. The family would gather together every evening to sing. His first mbira experiences came from his uncles, especially Mombo Nemasasi, who would play mbira for him during regular family visits. 

Later, Mararire began the study of mbira with his most important teacher, the late Sekuru Jeke Tapera. His music studies continued at music institutions in Zimbabwe and the USA, and he obtained a Ph.D.. in Ethnomusicology from the University of Washington, Seattle. He remembers being amazed by the interest that Americans of all races - especially whites - had in African music. It was the complete opposite in Rhodesia, where whites had absolutely nothing to do with blacks. There were also strong elements of racism in America however, and this surprised him. He came to realize that every society has its share of good and bad, failure and success. In Seattle, Maraire created a "Tuesday Night Ensemble" for learning mbira, marimba, drumming, singing and dance. It became so popular that they had to move to the orchestra room of the University. He also performed solo on mbira, and played marimba with various student groups he formed. During this time he recorded several albums, the most important of which was for the Nonesuch label. Later he would record "Chaminuka" on the Music of the World label, and eight years later the fine collaboration with Ephat Mujuru. All of his activities helped to expose him to the general public in the United States, and to a certain extent, around the world. Sadly, Dumisani Maraire passed away in 1998, a result of a heart failure. His music and his legacy will be remembered for many generations to come.

Chaminuka, Music of Zimbabwe (Music of the World MOW 208, 1989)

Shona Spirit (Music of the World MOW 136, 1995)

Masters of the African Mbira - Thumb Piano of Zimbabwe / The Kalimba (ARC Music EUCD1549)

Pieces of Africa, (Elektra Nonesuch 79275-2)