Simon Bright / Zimbabwe / 1990 / 52mins / video / no cert
with live performance from Charwell Durito
(Wed 12th / 8pm / £4)

Many of the rhythms and melodies found within the irresistible beat of Zimbabwean music derive from the mbira, a small traditional instrument with flat metal keys. Its sweet notes are intended as a call to the spirits of the ancestors to advise the community about current problems. This charming, award winning documentary features performances by many of Zimbabwe's finest traditional and contemporary musicians, and shows how music has been interwoven with the country's history. The director Simon Bright will introduce the film.
Plus Charwell Durito (originally from Zimbabwe who features in the
documentary) gives a live mbira performance. He has been playing mbira for 35 years (since the age of 4). In 1986, he joined the world-famous band Thomas Mapfumo & the Blacks Unlimited. Since 1994 Chartwell has been based in Britain where he teaches and performs mbira. Presented as part of Africa Focus events happening city-wide this month.