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The revival of Tshivenda traditional music is not just the pipe dream of some idealists. Judging by the turnout during a meeting held in Thohoyandou this past weekend, this form of music is about to undergo a major revival.
Different stakeholders met at the Thulamela Arts and Culture Centre on Saturday, and all in attendance spoke with one voice about the need to revive Tshivenda traditional music. The meeting was organised by the Tshivenda Traditional Music Organization (TTM Org).
The stakeholders included the Thulamela Arts Council, Limpopo Department of Sports, Arts and Culture, Vhembe Arts Council, and art practitioners in music, drama, and other visual arts. There were presentations by, among others, cultural activist and musician Naledzani Netshirembe.
Speaking during the event, Mr Ishy Malala, TTM Org’s chairperson, explained that many people were concerned that Tshivenda traditional music was fast fading away and that future generations would have nothing left of their heritage if nothing was done.
“Our music is not taken seriously, and we see this during festivals where our artists are overlooked. This has made artists shift to other genres at the expense of our traditional music. As artists, we are faced with a big challenge where our culture and traditions are not being upheld. When you go to other tribes, you always find them playing their own sounds. They have an identity that they convey through the arts. We have to reclaim our identity, and Tshivenda music should be distinct from others. Let us all go back to the drawing board and preserve our roots,” he said.
Malala said that they would be moving around the district, encouraging artists from now on. “This is just the start. We have realised that artists need to meet from time to time,” said Malala.
Representing the Limpopo Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Mr Vincent Netshivhodza commended the TTM Org leadership for organising such an event. “You are on the right path. This is how things should be done. As the government, we are here to support you. There are funds available from entities like the heritage and arts council that can assist you,” he said.
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The group of Vhembe artists and guests who gathered to revive Tshivenda traditional music. Photo: Elmon Tshikundo.
By: Elmon Tshikhudo
Elmon Tshikhudo started off as a photographer. He developed an interest in writing and started submitting articles to local as well as national publications. He became part of the Limpopo Mirror family in 2005 and was a permanent part of the news team until 2019.
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