Over 1 000 marimba players unite for world record attempt in South Africa

IOL News

22-07-2025

Over 1 000 marimba players from all around South Africa and Zimbabwe are hoping to break the Guinness World Record at Grand West next weekend.
In a landmark event set for Saturday, August 2, the Grand Arena at GrandWest in Cape Town will resonate with the harmonious sounds of marimbas as over 1 000 players from South Africa and Zimbabwe gather to attempt a Guinness World Records title for the largest marimba ensemble in history.
Under the theme "United in Harmony," this showcase aims not merely to break the current record set by Guatemala at 505 players, but to more than double it, placing South Africa firmly on the global stage for a celebration of cultural pride and musical talent.The visionary behind the initiative is Kiara Ramklass, the founder of Marimba Jam, an organisation dedicated to introducing youth to the joys of marimba music across South Africa.
Ramklass, who first discovered her passion for the marimba 18 years ago, expressed her excitement about the event: "South African marimbas are tuned in C major – it's almost impossible to feel sad when you hear them. They create this magical, happy energy. That's what we're sharing with the world on August 2."
The ensemble will feature marimba players aged 8 to 62, drawn from over 70 schools and institutions, representing every province in South Africa, alongside two schools from Zimbabwe. Participants are embarking on significant journeys; one team from KwaZulu-Natal is flying in right after their matric dance, while others are transporting their instruments across provincial lines from Durban and Johannesburg.
In this record-breaking moment, every marimba counts.
This is not Marimba Jam's first attempt at making history. In 2018, the organisation gathered 241 girls on Women's Day to unofficially break Australia's record, yet lacked the resources for official certification. Now, with an international adjudicator flying in from London, their aspiration to etch a new title into the record books is firmly in the spotlight."
This event is more than just breaking a record," Ramklass said. "It's about showing what's possible when we come together across socio-economic divides – private schools, township schools, rural schools – all on one stage. It's a loud, joyful message of ubuntu," the African philosophy that promotes community and shared humanity.Participants will perform a vibrant ten-minute medley of celebrated songs "Waka Waka" and "Jerusalema," both of which serve as powerful anthems of South African pride and unity.
As the grand event unfolds, a celebratory concert featuring local stars will conclude the day, further cementing the spirit of togetherness.
Attendees can look forward to a plethora of activities beyond the record attempt, including performances by Goodluck, live art installations, interactive marimba demonstrations, djembe drumming workshops, photo booths, and virtual reality experiences. Each participant will also receive an official Guinness World Records medallion in a medal ceremony, celebrating their contribution to this historic event.