Kusika and the Zambezi Marimba Band

Since 1986 Kusika has thrived as a place for students, faculty, and artists interested in the study and performance of traditions, concepts, and material from Africa and the diaspora. We are a community that shares a repertoire of traditions in dance, music, and storytelling that embraces the innovations characteristic of the global impact of the African continent.

Our work also reflects the challenges African peoples face. Our recent studies include material from the countries of Ghana, Guinea, Mali, Senegal, Zimbabwe, and Haiti.

Zambezi has come a long way since 1992. The group plays traditional music from Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Africa in general, and is moving toward hybridity. Zambezi’s musical depth has been enhanced by the quality of musicianship brought in by the students. Our orchestration includes brass, woodwinds, strings, and additional percussion, making the music richer.