Mbira Me (2014, rev. 2015)

While there are many types of lamellophones, often identified as “thumb pianos,” that come from various regions of Africa, Mbira Me is written for the mbira dzaVadzimu, an instrument that is central to the ritual practices of the Shona people of Zimbabwe.

Originally composed for a traditional mbira ensemble, I recently adapted Mbira Me as a duo using mbira and toy piano after realizing how suitably the two instruments complement one another. Beer is often consumed at ritual mbira performances, which are typically all-night events, and having recently become aware of the outstanding local beer scene in my home of Cincinnati, the title is a nod to that custom. 

Performance History