Dudu Muduri

Background

Dudu Muduri is the sound of the mortar when crushing of maize in the village. The song is played by children to help them remember the names of relatives. Still today many children in Africa go without television, internet and computer games, so are learning through music and play games. Such games have a hidden and powerful effect in teaching values and attitudes, which remain through  adulthood. The traditional African knowledge systems are embedded with skills acquired through childhood games, and is a tradition which continues to sustain many children today. 

Intructions for Game 

A child stands in the middle of a circle and calls 'Dudu muduri!' while the rest of the group replies and claps 'Katswe!'. 'Dudu' is then replaced by the relatives’ names.  

When you forget a name, you’re out of the game!    

“Dudu muduri”     

“Katswe!”   

“Chipo muduri”    

“Katswe!”    

"Billy muduri”    

“Katswe!”   

Pitch is not imporant in this song, students can also speak the rhythms.  

Shona Lyrics 

Dudu muduri  Katswe!  Dudu muduri  Katswe!  

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Resources

Lead Sheet