Isicathamiya

Isicathamiya is a singing tradition of the South African Zulu and is exclusively practiced by male choirs.

The name means " on tiptoes " or " when stalking ". Isicathamiya differs from traditional Mbube vocals ( "Lion " ), which is sung louder and more powerful. When isicathamiya however, more emphasis is placed on the harmonious interplay of different voices. The name also refers to the special dance style of singers, such as it is, for example, demonstrated by the internationally known group Ladysmith Black Mambazo. In this dance, the dancers move often on tiptoe.

The beginnings of isicathamiya date back to the turn of the 19th to the 20th century, when numerous men left the homelands to locate in cities and mining work. In order not to forget their origin and to preserve their identity, the men began to sing.

In the presence isicathamiya competitions are held on weekends in Johannesburg and Durban, often attended by up to thirty choirs.