Stella Rambisai Chiweshe, 'The Mbira Queen of Zimbabwe', plays a rare British concert at the Queen's Hall, Narberth, tonight (Friday), as part of a special tour of Wales.
Stella Chiweshe is an acclaimed virtuoso of the mbira, a sacred instrument central to Zimbabwean culture, and the music of the Shona people. Though a simple looking instrument - a block of wood with metal strips attached, often placed inside a gourd resonator - the mbira produces the most hypnotic music when placed in the right hands.
A powerful, charismatic performer now in her 60s, Stella Chiweshe battled to become the first female artist honoured with recognition in a music tradition that's long been dominated by men.
Today a successful recording artist, Chiweshe records both traditional and pop records, and boasts an extensive discography and world famous career.
Stella Chiweshe plays genuine trance music, and her Heart of The Earthquake touring band, featuring singers, percussionists and mbira players, are ready to take you on a deep and rhythmic journey.
Expect warm dance grooves, hypnotic melodies and soaring vocals that soothe and uplift, revealing the humanity, creativity, and mystical power of a true Zimbabwean original.
Tickets for Stella Rambisai and The Heart of The Earthquake Band at the Queen's Hall on October 31 are £14/ £12 concessions and can be booked in advance by phoning Span Arts Box Office on (01834) 869323.