The wisdom of the zar Mazaher
Mazaher guarantees an energetic performance. This ensemble from Egypt plays music inspired by the zar ritual from the Horn of Africa, a tradition that has disappeared almost everywhere. The music therefore differs greatly from other Egyptian styles: polyrhythmic layering and rousing turn singing form the core of this special repertoire. Marked by time, but still full of life, the women of Mazaher dance and sing their words of wisdom.
The wisdom of the zar Mazaher
Healing rousing music ritual
'The zar is aimed at calming and cleansing the human mind; it heals people of spiritual discomfort,' says lead singer Om Sameh. In addition to various frame drums, the members use the tanbura, a kind of lyre, and the manjur, a leather belt hung with rattling goats' hooves. The lyrics are about love for nature and for the divine. Mazaher is committed to keeping this unique cultural heritage alive.