Joburg audiences will have a rare opportunity to experience some of the best performances of African sounds when the Dizu Plaatjies – Ibuyambo Ensemble takes to the stage at The Wits Theatre on 19 September.
The group is a traditional ensemble led by the legendary Dizu Plaatjies. Plaatjies is the founder and former leader of South Africa’s internationally celebrated marimba group, Amampondo. The five-piece group is well-known for its traditional, neo-traditional and original African songs. The group prides itself on its use of instruments that are handmade out of wood, animal skins, seeds and hand-beaten metal.
Plaaitjies has been working with the group for an impressive 18 years. Having been in the music industry for more than two decades, he still manages to remain passionate about his craft and remains very inspired to make music.
“I am guided by my ancestors and led by God. My culture is the source of my inspiration,” he said.
Plaatjies’s music has taken him all over the world including the Czech Republic, where his collaboration with local folk artist Jiri Pavlica has made him a major attraction in that country. The two were awarded a gold record for their recordings together.
When not touring he spends his time teaching at the University of Cape Town’s Music College. As a teacher, he has recently visited the USA, Australia, and Scandinavia to hold workshops.
“I hope that they experience something unique, fresh and entertaining [at the show]. “Also, because I am a traditional man, I always embrace something cultured.”
