The Mbira Maker’s Symphony: A Lifetime Devotion to soulful sounds of art and craft

For this month’s interview, we turn our attention to music as an art form. We spoke to a remarkable musical talent from Mozambique, Auro Meireles also known as "May Mbira", an artist who blends tradition with modernity through the mbira, preserving the musical roots of his country while passing this cultural heritage on to a new generation.

How and when did your passion for music start?

My passion for music began when I was young, but I've been pursuing it professionally at the age of 17.

From where do you take your inspiration?

I get inspiration from nature, the purity of life, the society, and everyday life.

Describe your music, how do you create it?

My music is ancestral, organic, with an electronic and contemporary touch.

I create through the sounds I hear and experience every day and in different parts of the world and my country.

How much of your country's culture/ way of living/ history is in your music?

100% of Mozambican culture is present in my music and its compositional structure.

How do you create your instrument, mbira?

Through love, using iron and wood, along with construction and affirmation techniques, hammering and hammering, everything is built. There's also the curiosity to create new forms and improved construction ideas (technology).

How travels influence your work? (if applicable)

Travel greatly influences my work because I learn a lot from other cultures and peoples; I can find inspiration in other lifestyles and music.

What is the equipment you can not separate from?

Mbira, without any doubt, Xigovia, and my electronic machines.

Have you ever found obstacles in your work as an artist? (like parents, commissioners, etc)

Yes, of course! Many obstacles. Every day we face challenges to make a living from music in this country. We fight our way, but the system doesn't look at this cultural class as it should. We are still very far from being a financial focus in this country.

Is there any message you want to give to the future artist generation?

Brothers and sisters, let's return to our roots, our origins, and take care of preserving our culture, because it is very beautiful and rich.

You are a musician and teacher. How do you combine both professions, and how do you organize your music concerts?

Through good organizational plans, giving time for everything at different times. It's not easy, but it's possible.

Where are your next concerts?

The next shows to be announced, but you can follow mw on Instagram to stay updated.

Contact May Mbira;

based in Maputo, Mozambique

‪+258 84 900 7834

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/may_mbira/

Email: mbiramay@gmail.com

Interview by: Annamaria Ronca.