The Soul of Mbira: Music and Traditions of the Shona People

Abstract

Background:

Several researchers including missionaries, historians, anthropologists and ethno­musicologists have studied several elements of Zimbabwean culture including religion. language and music. Findings about these elements of culture have been documented. This paper seeks to analyse the accuracy and validity of the findings by Berliner ( 1978) since it is apparent that some of the conclusions had misconceptions. Berliner is an American who was introduced to Zimbabwean music by Dumisani Mararire who taught African music in Seattle, Washington for several years, (Berliner 1978). Works by the scholar form, a very useful base for evaluating published literature on Zimbabwean music. There is no doubt that although there might be apparent inaccuracies here and there. the literature remains valuable to the history and nature of African music.