Reid Lunch-hour Concert

Programme

Ssematimba ne Kikwabanga
  One of many 'historical' songs performed by the 'abalere ba Kabaka' the king's flautists at the court of the king of Buganda. 
  In the palace a group of four drummers would accompany a consort of flutes of six different sizes
     Albert Ssempeke and Peter Cooke

Ssematimba ne Kikwabanga
  Two different xylophones provided music at the Kabaka's palace.  The twelve key amadinda spans two octaves and two notes and is normally played by three persons.
  The two lower parts interlock with each player playing 'off the beat' in relation to the other.  A third part (okukoonera) is played on the two highest notes only.
     Robin Kuller and Ssempeke

Wakadaala yetikka
  Accompanied by endongo (bowl lyre) and ndingidi (tube fiddle) this song was inspired by the arrival of the first fire engine in Kampala. 
  The title translates 'The thing with steps that carries everything'.
     Catherine Gray, Tina Ramnarine and Wae Ming Poon with Ssempeke

Enguli ekwata
  A song much used at weddings and other feasts where th bowl lyre once was a prominent instrument -
   advising those who take strong drink not to overdo it and always to eat plenty food.
     Peter Szalapaj and Ssempeke

Akawologoma (little lion) 
  This is one of many songs that the harper at the King's palace would play for the delight of his king - the kabaka.  
  The ennanga (bow harp) was designed for private and personal use and the playing style is closely related to that of the xylophone.
     Albert Ssempeke - ennanga (bow harp)

Kalagala 'e Bbembe
     Julia Spooner and Ssempeke

Nagenda kasama - Kiganda baakisimba dance
   The 'national' dance of Buganda performed at feasts and other joyous occasions.
   The work baakisimba is derived from the verb 'to plant' and the steps of the dancers symbolise the pushing in of the earth around the freshly planted banana trees.
   The large drum when used for this dance is also called a baakisimba.
   The words of the chorus 'Tweyanze nnyo' thank the patrons and the musicians and the dancers for their generosity.
      Andrew Cooke and Ssempeke

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