AFRO-FOLK musician Pilani Bubu, a true storyteller at heart, is set to showcase her latest work, *Nay'Indaba*, at the upcoming Folklore Festival. Scheduled for Saturday, September 14, at Constitution Hill's Women's Jail in Joburg, her performance promises to be the highlight of the event, which embraces the theme #WeTheFolk.
In an exclusive interview with Daily Sun, Pilani shared insights into her musical journey and the inspirations behind her work. Her love for music began at the tender age of nine during family road trips. "Listening to diverse genres of music with my parents and siblings, and singing along, first made me fall in love with harmony and improvisation," she recalled.
As her interest deepened throughout her school years, she explored various instruments. "I started playing the recorder, marimbas, and piano in primary school. Later, I played the violin in string ensembles at school, the Joburg Youth Orchestra, and the Pretoria STEPP Youth Orchestra," she explained.
Pilani's passion for music continued as she sang in numerous groups, from jazz chamber choirs to folk ensembles. Reflecting on the significance of the Folklore Festival, she emphasized its celebration of traditional music and cultural heritage. "The festival curates a line-up of contemporary folk artists who use traditional instrumentation and sounds in their music," she noted.
Her unique style incorporates indigenous languages and instruments like the marimba and mbira, along with traditional rhythms. "Storytelling in my music is purposeful and impactful. This has truly helped me shape the indelible storyteller in me," she added.
With a commitment to uplifting humanity through her art, Pilani stated, "The Folklore Festival is an intentional platform for artivists and storytellers like me. Expect storytelling with potency like never before." As she prepares for this significant performance, audiences can anticipate a powerful blend of tradition and contemporary artistry that resonates deeply.
In an exclusive interview with Daily Sun, Pilani shared insights into her musical journey and the inspirations behind her work. Her love for music began at the tender age of nine during family road trips. "Listening to diverse genres of music with my parents and siblings, and singing along, first made me fall in love with harmony and improvisation," she recalled.
As her interest deepened throughout her school years, she explored various instruments. "I started playing the recorder, marimbas, and piano in primary school. Later, I played the violin in string ensembles at school, the Joburg Youth Orchestra, and the Pretoria STEPP Youth Orchestra," she explained.
Pilani's passion for music continued as she sang in numerous groups, from jazz chamber choirs to folk ensembles. Reflecting on the significance of the Folklore Festival, she emphasized its celebration of traditional music and cultural heritage. "The festival curates a line-up of contemporary folk artists who use traditional instrumentation and sounds in their music," she noted.
Her unique style incorporates indigenous languages and instruments like the marimba and mbira, along with traditional rhythms. "Storytelling in my music is purposeful and impactful. This has truly helped me shape the indelible storyteller in me," she added.
With a commitment to uplifting humanity through her art, Pilani stated, "The Folklore Festival is an intentional platform for artivists and storytellers like me. Expect storytelling with potency like never before." As she prepares for this significant performance, audiences can anticipate a powerful blend of tradition and contemporary artistry that resonates deeply.
