The Zimbabwe College of Music (ZCoM) is celebrating the international achievement of one of its most distinguished former students, ethnomusicologist and mbira enthusiast Hector Rufaro Mugani, as his work is set to feature in a major new concert series in Germany. This exciting collaboration with American-German percussionist Lee Forrest Fergusonand the Black Forest Percussion Group is particularly timely, as it coincides with Mbira Month—Zimbabwe’s annual September dedication to promoting and appreciating the instrument’s profound musical, cultural, and spiritual significance.
By Plot Mhako
The composition chosen for this international spotlight is Mugani’s “Hurukuro Na Nyamasase,” which has been incorporated into the “Narrow Sea” concert series, scheduled for performances in Freiburg and Waldkirch, Germany, in November 2025. This news is a powerful moment for ZCoM, affirming the global influence of its alumni during a month dedicated to the instrument at the heart of Mugani’s innovative work.
“Hurukuro Na Nyamasase” is a heartfelt piece based on the traditional Taireva chord progression. Its melodic lines depict a poignant conversation between a father and his daughter, beautifully capturing a feeling of distance interwoven with the enduring hope of reunion. This emotional resonance aligns perfectly with the “Narrow Sea” concert’s overarching theme: the universal human need for “home,” a place of security and emotional arrival.
The program features Mugani’s work alongside compositions by Erik Griswold, Caroline Shaw, and others, all exploring this common thread of longing, hope, and sometimes fear.
Mugani’s composition was originally commissioned by Ferguson for the “Midi Mallet Manual” project, an educational initiative to help young players integrate electronics with mallet playing. The work is based on Mugani’s new musical framework, the Manomwe Mazwisystem, which synthesizes traditional and modern music pedagogy. For the “Narrow Sea” concert, the piece will be performed with a unique live arrangement: accompanying voices will be played on marimba, vibraphone, and piano, alongside the solo MalletKat programmed with authentic mbira sounds.
A highly respected figure in Zimbabwean music, Hector Rufaro Mugani holds a degree in Ethnomusicology from ZCoM. He is a co-founder and mbira player for the revolutionary Mbira-punk band Chikwata.263 and co-founder of the research platform Mbiravolution, which champions cultural preservation.
This collaboration not only highlights the global reach of ZCoM’s music education but also the innovative spirit of its alumni. In a related development, Mugani’s Mbiravolution will partner with ZCoM at the end of October for an mbira workshop based on his forthcoming book, Manomwe Mazwi.
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