In a time where the relentless modernisation of our lives leaves few traditions standing, it is encouraging to see a band of young people whose main ambition is to keep the traditional African style of music alive and make sure the Marimba "will not be forgotten". Des Warde meets with Beverley Gough, the marimba band's manager , to get the story behind Abavuki...

Recently, strolling the length of St Georges Mall, I heard a beat and melody which were something beyond what one might expect from common "busking" musicians. My course changed quickly and soon I came upon the heart of this oscillating sound. A large gathering of people encircled the group of youngsters expertly weaving a unique blend of traditional African music and western Jazz. The musicians, I was told, went by the name Abavuki. I was soon sitting in a Cape Town office with their manager, Beverley Gough (of Amampondo fame) listening to their story...

The initial inspiration to create Abavuki came when drummer Miyo Sakabula one night had a dream in which he "heard drums playing with brass instruments", about which he later approached a musician friend. Finding other interested musicians was easy in the close knit community of Langa, and the ten man band as it stands today was quickly formed."Wake up, early birds", the meaning of the name, characterises the attitude of the members and their philosophy of "seizing the moment and getting things done for themselves".

Beverley comments that although the average Marimba group, playing very repetitive rhythms, does not generally appeal to the western ear, Abavuki has crossed this divide by using instruments western listeners are familiar with, and by adapting western songs to African instruments. Inspired by local Jazz artists and boasting a brass section trained by Amampondo, Ababuki plays both original and 'cover' music, the latter ranging from popular Jazz tunes all the way to Puccini's Libiamo!

Trumpeter Andile Makabulo claims the band's dream and motivation is to help keep the traditional style of music alive and make sure the Marimba instrument "will not be forgotten". They also wish to take the band to a national, then international level. Regarding local audiences, Andile says the best response comes from the older crowds, saying the youth are more interested in Kwaito, House and Rap, though when I watch them play at St Georges Mall, I see many young faces enjoying the music.

The band will shortly be appearing on the Reality TV show Lets Fix It, which paid for the shipping of their brass instruments, generously donated by the Brass Herald, from England. Their début album "African Rhythms" is available at www.oneworld.co.za , and is also being given away to two lucky users at The Independent Journalist – so sign-up now. Registration is free and as a registered user, you will automatically be included in the competition.

Abavuki is available for weddings, parties and gigs and can be contacted via email at abavuki@mweb.co.za.