Julia Tsitsi Chigamba grew up in the rich cultural traditions of Shona music and dance. Daughter of the highly respected gwenyambira, Sekuru Chigamba, she is a longtime member of Mhembero, the Chigamba family dance and mbira ensemble. Julia came to the United States in 1999. Two years later, in Oakland, California, she established the organization Tawanda muChinyakare and the music and dance company Chinyakare to share the beauty and wisdom of her culture in the United States. This summer she will be performing for Summer Sounds, music and art for kids, at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Julia continues to teach dance, music and culture in Oakland schools and in the community.
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Julia Tsitsi Chigamba