manifesto

LUTSINGA MUSICAL ENSEMBLE is composed of musicians from very different walks of life. The group was initiated by singer/songwriter Thilivhali Tshivhase in collaboration with Scott 'Sven' Vento(trumpet, keyboards, melodica), Carlton Lowe(bass, percussion, vocals), Jeff Weinmann(drums, flute, percussion, vocals) and Matome Somo(guitars, vocals, congas). Our other family members include Cecil 'Pnut' Daniels (drums, percussion, midi horn, vocals) and John Chmaj (piano, organ, alto saxophone, flute).

The ideology of LUTSINGA's music is KHUVHANGANO - harmony, collaboration and togetherness. The music is influenced by South Afrikan rhythms and rhymes ranging from folk songs, township jive/jazz, reggae, funk, spoken word and mbaqanga. When all these sounds are put in the crucible, the results are potent.

LUTSINGA MUSICAL ENSEMBLE has performed at a myriad of venues including Ashkenaz, Kimballs East, Shattuck Down Low, Pier 23 Cafe, University of San Francisco and UC Santa Barbara. We have appeared on stage with many other taleted groups including Zulu Spear, Amandla Poets, African Rhythm Messengers, Vukani Mawethu, E.W. Wainwright, The Palm Wine Boys, Hairdoo and Pnut & The Apocalypse.

Our resolve for playing music lies in the fact that music can be a healing and unifying ingredient, a powerful communication tool and a catalyst for change. LUTSINGA is the Venda word for VEIN - the vein through which these melodious rhythms and sounds flow. We hope the music will soothe your spirit, and encourage tolerance, harmony, peace and justice.