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Sophie Nzayisenga
kora, gharnatiRwanda
Few musicians have redefined a tradition as boldly as Sophie Nzayisenga, the first professional female master of the 'inanga,' Rwanda’s ancient stringed zither and cultural emblem. Born in Nyanza to a family of musicians, she began training under her father, Thomas Kirusu, at age six and was performing internationally by nine.
Her 1986 composition “Ikera kurima” won national acclaim and aired on Radio Rwanda. She has since toured across East Africa, Europe, Asia, and the U.S., and in 2016, joined the Nile Project, promoting cross-cultural dialogue through music. Her 2021 debut album, "Queen of Inanga: Music from Rwanda," and the collaborative EP "Abagore Barashoboye" with Andi Otto spotlight her blend of tradition and innovation.
As an educator at Oakdale Music School in Kigali, she mentors young women in inanga performance. In 2024, she was honored as a laureate by the African Music Academy for her cultural impact and preservation of Rwandan heritage.
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