About Us
At Zuva Grooves, we believe that music has the extraordinary ability to bring people together.
Our mission is to create joyful, interactive musical experiences that inspire connection, creativity, and cultural appreciation for people of every age and ability. Whether through live performances, educational demonstrations, or hands-on workshops, we invite everyone to experience the excitement of making music together.
The heart of our programs features African-style marimbas and the rich musical traditions of Zimbabwe. These welcoming instruments make it easy for beginners to start playing almost immediately while offering endless opportunities for creativity and collaboration.
No experience is necessary—only curiosity and a willingness to participate.
Meet Mark
Born and raised in Ohio, Mark has spent a lifetime exploring the many ways music connects people.
A multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, educator, and performer, Mark plays guitar, piano, trumpet, African-style marimba, and the traditional Zimbabwean mbira. His musical journey took a transformative turn while living in the Pacific Northwest, where he discovered the captivating sounds and community-centered traditions of Zimbabwean music.
For more than 25 years, Mark has studied traditional Zimbabwean music with respected teachers and musicians, continually deepening his understanding of its rhythms, history, and cultural significance. Today, he shares that passion through performances, workshops, and educational programs that welcome people from every background into the musical experience.
Whether teaching toddlers, students, adults, or older adults, Mark creates an encouraging environment where everyone feels comfortable participating and discovering their own musical voice.
Our Philosophy
Music belongs to everyone.
That’s the simple idea that guides everything we do.
We believe:
- Anyone can learn to play music.
- Everyone has something valuable to contribute.
- Music creates meaningful connections between people.
- Shared musical experiences build stronger communities.
- Learning another culture’s music fosters understanding, appreciation, and respect.
When we make music together, we’re doing much more than playing notes. We’re listening, responding, communicating, encouraging, and creating something that none of us could accomplish alone.
These shared moments strengthen relationships, spark creativity, and remind us that rhythm is a language everyone can speak.
What makes Zuva Grooves Different
Our programs are designed to be inclusive, engaging, and memorable. Rather than simply performing for an audience, we create opportunities for people to participate, collaborate, and experience the joy of music firsthand.
Whether you’re hosting a festival, school assembly, corporate retreat, nonprofit event, farmers market, cultural celebration, or private gathering, every program is thoughtfully customized to fit your audience and goals.
From the first note to the final rhythm, our goal is simple:
To inspire connection, celebrate culture, and help people discover the joy of making music together.