Leonard Chiyanike

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One of the greatest living mbira players, Leonard Chiyanike comes from an mbira-playing family, and has played Shona mbira music in traditional ceremonies since he was a boy in the 1960’s. Though a humble, easygoing man, his performances on the mbira are outstanding in both their technical proficiency and improvisational style. The warmth of his voice adds to the musical experience. Chiyanike is also one of the most respected Zimbabwean mbira instrument makers. He has enjoyed teaching numerous foreign mbira students in Zimbabwe, and sharing his music and traditional culture during his first U.S. tour in 2012.