![]() |
|
MBIRA offers three 2008 Mbira Camp summer sessions in Berkeley, California, USA; and an April session in Argentina. The concept of Mbira Camp is total immersion in traditional Shona mbira music of Zimbabwe, day and evening, for 8 days. Mbira Camp dates will be:
Argentina Session 19 - 26 April 2008 Mbira Camp is led by Erica Azim, who has played and loved Shona mbira music since 1970. She has developed a teaching method designed specifically for the Western student who desires to experience traditional Shona mbira music in its fullest depth. Two marvellous Zimbabwean co-teachers who have not been to the US before, Mai Jenny Muchumi and Patience Chaitezvi, will co-teach all 3 summer Mbira Camps (confirmed, they have their visas and will definitely be here). Mbira Camp is sponsored by the non-profit organization MBIRA, devoted to the preservation and support of traditional Shona mbira music of Zimbabwe. The typical Mbira Camp day includes mbira lessons in the morning, a break after lunch, an optional related activity in the afternoon (hosho lesson, mbira dance class, cultural presentation, etc) followed by time for the group to play mbira together, and the full group gathering in the evening for mbira singing, ear training, and playing together. Mbira Camp activities and instruction include:
Also, campers often play together in 2's and 3's informally, outside scheduled session/lesson times. Mbira lovers at every playing level are encouraged to attend, and previous Mbira Camps have included beginning, intermediate, and advanced players. New beginners may purchase an instrument from MBIRA in advance to use at Camp, or choose one at Camp. MBIRA CAMP INFORMATION (see dates above) Locations The summer Mbira Camp location is Erica Azim's big house and garden in Berkeley, California. Lessons are held one day at the beach and one day in a redwood forest, weather permitting. The Argentina Mbira Camp location is a beautiful rural house in the Argentine pampas, outside Buenos Aires (fly into Buenos Aires). Cost and enrollment Cost of camp is $800 for eight days of mbira immersion, which covers all living expenses (Mbira Camp is known for its great chefs!), instruction, and activities. The Mbira Camp fee is reduced to $750, if paid IN FULL by April 1st for California, February 1st for Argentina (postmark date). Inquire about a greatly discounted camp fee for Argentina if you are a resident of South America. Advance enrollment for Mbira Camp is required. Enrollment is usually limited to a maximum of 12 campers per session. A non-refundable $400 deposit with the enrollment form will hold a space for you until June 1st; enrollment later requires the full $800 fee. Enrollment is on a "first come" basis, so send in your deposit as soon as possible. The balance of payment is due no later than your first day of Camp. Please make checks or US$ money orders payable to MBIRA, and send in with your Mbira Camp Enrollment Form. Payment is non-refundable, unless another student takes your place (occasionally there is a waiting list). Sleeping accomodations at Mbira Camp are choice of a shared sleeping room, or an outdoor tent (bring your own for California). Sleeping mats are provided, but you must bring your own sleeping bag or blankets. CAMP RECORDING POLICY:
You may only buy copies of MBIRA recordings if you agree that you absolutely will not copy them for anyone. Your friends can get them directly from MBIRA. The point is to get the money to the Zimbabwean musicians on the recordings, who are definitely poorer than your poorest friend. What is a relatively small amount of money for us is making a significant difference in the survival of some of the musicians receiving it. QUESTIONS: More Mbira Camp information, including schedule, "to bring" list and directions will be sent to enrolled Campers. Questions? Call 510-548-6053 or email camp@mbira.org. |
|
|
|