Ndingo

In the picture is an above named musical
instrument used by the San people. It is
from the olden days and who's usage has
diminished since 'the change'.

Many of the elders still have the skill and
desire to make music with it but few of the
younger ones do.

It is played with the thumbs and though it
may appear simple, it takes a bit of practice
to produce the right sound.

We acquired this ndingo for the Young San
Cultural Group and it should enhance their
already excellent performances.

We are in the process of trying to outfit the
group with all the traditional materials and
I am hoping to have future blog entries
describing each new item as we acquire
them.

This ndingo was made by a man from one
of the other San tribes ( total of 5 altogether )
who is living in the village. He is from the !xun
tribe while the main population of the village
are that of the Khwe.

The ndingo was used mainly during engagement
and wedding ceremonies, plus for the celebration
of a successful hunt.

We are going to see if any of the Cultural Group's
members are interested in learning how to play
the ndingo and if so, we'll search for an elder who
is willing to teach.

A cultural group is about keeping these types of
cultural practices alive and well, n'est pas?