A new series of postage stamps featuring indigenous African musical instruments have been launched by the Post Office at the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown, as part of a new partnership with the event.
The stamps aim to create more awareness about indigenous music as a key part of South Africa’s cultural legacy. Designed by local artist Hein Botha, the ten stamps in the series each feature a rare musical instrument from various cultural groups. The instruments each point to the rich elements of rhythm, music, song and dance inherent to African culture, and an integral part of most African ceremonies and rituals.
At the Festival, which runs until 10 July 2011, the Post Office presents a daily series of free lunchtime concerts, together with the International Library of African Music, featuring artists who are skilled in playing these rare African musical instruments.
Musical instruments depicted on the stamps include the stringed //Gwashi, a Ramkie, Sansa, drums and the Bull Roarer.
