Nobuntu
Nobuntu, the female a cappella quintet from Zimbabwe, has drawn international acclaim for its inventive performances that range from traditional Zimbabwean songs to afro jazz to gospel. The ensemble’s concerts are performed with pure voices, augmented by minimalistic percussion, traditional instruments such as the Mbira (thumb piano) and organic, authentic dance movements.
Nobuntu was nominated for Best Musician of the Year at the Zimbabwe International Women Awards in London in 2015 and in the last few seasons, the quintet has performed at festivals and concert halls in Italy, Austria, Germany, Belgium, the Czech Republic and throughout the African continent. The ensemble was a huge critical success at "Trans-Vocal" in Frankfurt and "Voice Mania" in Vienna. Their first tour to Canada in 2016 included performances in Toronto, Winnipeg, Vancouver and Victoria.
The word Nobuntu is an African concept that values humbleness, love, purpose, unity and family from a woman’s perspective. The ensemble represents a new generation of young African women singers who celebrate and preserve their culture, beauty and heritage through art. The ensemble’s mission is the belief that music can be an important vehicle for change, one that transcends racial, tribal, religious, gender and economic boundaries.
Nobuntu has released three recordings: "Thina" in 2013, "Ekhaya" in 2016 and "Obabes beMbube" in 2018. The group has made numerous television and radio appearances throughout Africa and Europe promoting these recordings and the culture of their homeland.