Practices and strategies of vachai va timbira in Maputo (Mozambique) to maintain and reinvent their musical arts

Abstract

This research reflects on the practices and strategies applied by the vachayi va timbira in Maputo, Mozambique, to reinvent and maintain their musical arts. The research is based on the Gestural, Oral and Practical Empirical Field in dialogue with African Musicology and Ethnomusicology with emphasis on Emily Akuno, Kwabena Nketia, Luka Mukhavele, Madimabe Mapaya and Meki Nzewi. Ethnography as the basis of research was materialized through observation, interviews, photographs, and bibliographical research. Through this epistemology and methodology, practices and strategies stand out: 1) Reusing of discarded materials for musical instruments; 2) Exchange of knowledge in a practical and open way; 3) Self-taught training through trial and error experiments; 4) Learning through observation, listening and repetition; 5) Exploration of musical arts from southeast Africa; 6) Introduction of musical instruments in different spaces; 7) Valuing manual work; 8) Development of multidisciplinary activities.