Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Rapasa Nyatrapasa Otieno is from Kenya and based in Newcastle upon Tyne. His main instrument, the Nyatiti, is a traditional eight-string lyre from the shores of Kenya’s Nam Lolwe (Lake Victoria).
Watch a special performance by Rapasa filmed at his Snape Residency
What is Nyatiti?
The
Nyatiti
is a
traditional eight-stringed plucked lyre (a
type of string instrument) played by the Lüo
community of Western
Kenya. Played whilst sat on a low stool called a then,
the
bowl-shaped, carved wood resonator is covered
in cow
skin
with eight
strings
attached and a hole that
amplifies the sound. Rapasa
Nyatrapasa
Otieno
is
one of the youngest Nyatiti players in Kenya, and the music he creates is inspired by traditional storytelling. His mission
is to reclaim the space of traditional and rare
instruments in the mainstream.
The Nyatiti is more than just an instrument, it is the voice of the Lüo community. Lüo means ‘to follow’ which is symbolic of how the tribe travelled along the Nile and settled in Kenya. The Nyatiti can be crafted from items found in and around the river itself. It is played to mark births, to celebrate unions and to mourn death. If you hear certain tunes played, the whole village will be aware that someone has passed away.
The eight strings are divided into two halves: the lower four strings which are higher in pitch, represent the first four days after a child is born. The upper four strings, which are lower in pitch, represent the four days after a death. The music is an expression of gratitude. It acts as a symbol of unification and respect within the lake region. Chanting, singing and playing technique combine to make a performance that traditionally lasts throughout the night: whoever has the most audience when dawn breaks is held in highest regard.
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