Cecilia is a Zimbabwean singer, songwriter, storyteller, and live performer based in the UK, whose music is deeply rooted in heritage and connection. Cecilia was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, where she began performing traditional dance and singing as a child, earning her the nickname “Magida omncane” or “Little Dancer” for her natural stage presence and joy.
Music is a deep part of Cecilia’s family heritage. With a father who is a jazz saxophonist and a mother whose musical heritage dates back to the 1930s in Zimbabwe, Cecilia was raised in a household filled with rhythm and song. Cecilia went on to tour the world as a backing vocalist and integral part of Oliver Mtukudzi’s Black Spirits during its iconic golden years, recording and performing as part of a legacy that continues to live on globally. In addition to this, she has also emerged as a compelling solo artist.
Since relocating to the UK in 2000, Cecilia has enthralled audiences at festivals, small venues, and community events. Whether leading her dynamic band Bulawayo, working collaboratively as part of the Cecilia Ndhlovu Trio, or running inclusive singing workshops, Cecilia has created uplifting spaces where heritage, storytelling, and collective voice come alive.
Zimbabwe has a long and rich musical history that encompasses songs sung at important community events, traditional mbira music, jit, chimurenga and even modern Zim Dancehall. Cecilia distills all of these into a fun and sometimes emotionally powerful community singing workshop suitable for all levels.
With some songs accompanied by the delicate sounds of the mbira, emotion is never far away. When Cecilia picks up her hosho you know it will be time to blow the roof off… Come and sing ingoma zesintu sakwethu!
