How to enjoy traditional Zanzibari music

1. Attend a Live Taarab Performance

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: Taarab is the most iconic form of Zanzibari music, blending Swahili poetic lyrics with a mix of Arabic, Indian, and African musical traditions. The slow, melodic rhythms, accompanied by instruments like the oud, violin, and accordion, create an emotional and moving listening experience.
• What to Do: Head to venues like Forodhani Gardens in Stone Town, where local musicians often perform live Taarab. Additionally, many hotels and resorts host evening performances featuring Taarab music. If you’re lucky, you may also be able to catch a live Taarab orchestra at events like the Sauti za Busara Festival held annually in Zanzibar.

2. Explore Zanzibar’s Music Festivals

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: Zanzibar is home to several music festivals that showcase traditional music alongside modern genres. These festivals are a great way to experience a mix of live performances from local and international artists in the heart of Zanzibar.
• What to Do: Attend the Sauti za Busara festival, the most prominent music event on the island. It features local Zanzibari music as well as performances from African and global artists. Another option is the Zanzibar International Film Festival, which often includes musical performances, allowing visitors to experience the island’s music culture in an engaging and festive setting.

3. Visit the Zanzibar Cultural Centre

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: The Zanzibar Cultural Centre offers a deeper look into the island’s music, arts, and culture. It often hosts performances and educational events focused on traditional music, and it’s a great place to learn more about the history and instruments behind Zanzibari music.
• What to Do: Attend one of the center’s music performances, where you can hear live traditional music and interact with musicians who explain the cultural significance of the music. This is a great way to connect with Zanzibari music on a deeper level.

4. Learn About Traditional Instruments

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: Zanzibari music is defined by its use of traditional instruments, many of which are unique to the island. Understanding these instruments helps to appreciate the music more fully.
• What to Do: Take the opportunity to learn about the various instruments used in Zanzibari music, such as the oud (a stringed instrument), violin, sitar, drums, and qanun (a type of zither). You can see these instruments played live at performances or visit local music shops where artisans create them. Some cultural centers and resorts even offer short workshops where visitors can try playing them themselves.

5. Experience the Rhythms of Ngoma Drumming

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: Ngoma is a type of traditional drumming music from the Swahili coast, often performed during celebrations, ceremonies, and rituals. The deep, rhythmic beats of Ngoma drumming are central to many cultural events on the island.
• What to Do: Attend a local performance that showcases Ngoma drumming. You may be able to see drummers perform at festivals, weddings, or local gatherings. If you’re feeling adventurous, look for opportunities to participate in a drumming workshop, where you can try your hand at playing these powerful rhythms yourself.

6. Enjoy Zanzibari Music in a Local Restaurant or Café

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: If you’re looking for a more casual way to enjoy traditional music, many local restaurants and cafes offer live performances in the evenings. Enjoying Zanzibari music in a relaxed setting allows you to appreciate the tunes while savoring local cuisine.
• What to Do: Visit popular spots like The Tatu Restaurant or Mercury’s Restaurant in Stone Town, which often feature live Zanzibari music performances. Dining in these venues gives you the opportunity to enjoy music while experiencing the island’s local dishes, such as Zanzibar pizza and fresh seafood.

7. Discover Zanzibari Music Through Dance

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: Traditional Zanzibari music is often accompanied by energetic and expressive dance styles. These dances reflect the rhythms and cultural significance of the music, making for an immersive experience.
• What to Do: Attend a performance where music and dance go hand in hand, such as a Taarab dance show or a Ngoma dance performance. You can also take part in dance workshops that teach you the traditional movements, helping you connect even more deeply with the music.

8. Visit Local Music Shops and Markets

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: Exploring local music shops and markets gives you the chance to not only hear music but also purchase instruments or recordings to take home as souvenirs.
• What to Do: Visit Stone Town’s markets, where you may find traditional music instruments and CDs of Zanzibari music. You can talk to the local musicians and shopkeepers to learn more about the instruments and music that are integral to the island’s culture.

9. Take a Zanzibar Music Tour

• Why It’s Worth Enjoying: A guided music tour is a great way to explore the island’s music scene while learning from local experts. These tours take you to live performances, music venues, and cultural centers, and provide a deeper understanding of the historical roots of Zanzibari music.
• What to Do: Book a Zanzibar music tour with a local guide, who can take you to the best spots for traditional music performances and explain the history and cultural significance of each style. Tours may include stops at local music venues, cultural centers, and even private performances.