The group is presently under the artistic direction of two of Zanzibar’s taarab maestros Mr Iddi Suwedi of Culture Musical Club and Mr Mohamed Ilyas of Nadi Ikhwan Safaa (Malindi Taarab). Including lead singers and selected artists from the aforementioned orchestras, Kikundi cha Taifa also features musicians from East African Melody, KIKI Taarab Baladna and other groups from around Zanzibar and Pemba islands.
Numbering 42 artists in total the orchestra plays traditional taarab music using ud, violin, qanun, cello, bass, accordion and percussion.
Under government sponsorship the National Taarab Orchestra comes together specifically to perform for special events for example to mark Zanzibar’s Revolution Day every year on January 12th. Athough they have not yet recorded CDs, famous songs in their repertoire include Vya Kale Dhahabu (Old is Gold); Kanijia Kwenye Ndoto; Ombi Mahususi and Chozi la Huba.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.
