Umcimbi – a Xhosa word describing a traditional ceremony, often including rituals and cultural patterns.
Jazz Umcimbi + Art Exhibition reimagines the sonic (through the lens of South African Jazz) as a solemn space in which the cultural performance is realized. Equally, the production uses visual arts as a prism for memory wherein the reality of umcimbi can be referenced and understood. At the core of the production, inclusivity and parallel realities (within our cultures) are projected through modes of art that complement each other. Essentially, the Jazz Umcimbi + Art Exhibition engages art as a space for locating our cultural identities and histories.
The Band Stand
The sonic makers present themselves in a multiracial outfit that projects the energies of young scholars in the jazz vocation from across the province. The band also includes a storyteller and vocalist.
The Visual Art Extension
The visual creatives will present myriad mediums exuding cultural themes and objects of traditional resonance. These storytellers, also scholars from the province, represent the horizon of great artistry that this world has.
PRODUCTION CREDITS
Curator: Zuko Yigi
ABOUT THE ARTISTS
Zuko Yigi was born and raised in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, where his musical journey started. Currently doing honors in Bachelor of Music (BMus) in jazz studies at the University of Fort Hare (UFH) under the tutelage of Mr. Nduduzo Makhathini. Zuko is being trained to specialize in music performance, research (South African Jazz History, African Philosophy of Music, and Music and Art business studies). Zuko is also a creative curator focusing on the creative and tourism economy. With experience as a recording bassist, music director, and producer, Zuko has appeared for myriad band outfits and has played with/for Nduduzo Makhathini, Ayanda Sikande, Alan Webster, Dumza Maswana, Msaki, Vinnie Mak, Zintle, Neatyah, Sakhile Simani, Phumlani Mtiti, to name a few.