United in Harmony: South Africa’s Marimba Jam Aims to Break World Record

Over 1,000 marimba players from across South Africa and Zimbabwe will unite on 2 August 2025 at Cape Town’s Grand Arena, GrandWest, in a bold attempt to set a new Guinness World Records™ title for the Largest Marimba Ensemble.

A Celebration of Music, Unity and Ubuntu

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Cape Town, this once-in-a-lifetime event, aptly themed “United in Harmony”, aims to more than double the current world record of 505 players set by Guatemala.

With over 1,000 participants, the event is a joyful celebration of African rhythm, youth spirit, and national pride.

The brainchild behind the initiative is Kiara Ramklass, founder of Marimba Jam, an organisation that has brought the joy of marimba music into schools across South Africa for more than a decade.

“South African marimbas are tuned in C major – it’s almost impossible to feel sad when you hear them,” says Kiara. “They create this magical, happy energy. That’s what we’re sharing with the world on the 2nd of August.”

From Classrooms to Centre Stage

Participants range in age from 8 to 62 and represent over 70 schools and institutions from every province in South Africa, as well as two schools from Zimbabwe.

Some bands will travel thousands of kilometres, with others transporting instruments by truck or flying in directly after their matric dances, proof of the powerful sense of commitment and excitement.

This isn’t Marimba Jam’s first bid for history. In 2018, they unofficially broke Australia’s record with 241 girls on Women’s Day. This time, with official adjudication and a Guinness World Records™ representative flying in from London, the attempt is fully sanctioned and globally recognised.

“This event isn’t just about breaking a record,” adds Kiara. “It’s about breaking boundaries—across socio-economic lines, geographies, and generations. This is ubuntu in action.”

What to Expect on the Day

The main ensemble will perform a ten-minute medley of Waka Waka and Jerusalema, two beloved African anthems symbolising unity and cultural pride. But the day doesn’t end there.

Visitors can also enjoy:

• A live concert headlined by South African supergroup Goodluck
• Djembe drumming workshops
• Live art installations
• Marimba demonstrations
• Virtual reality music experiences
• A photo booth and interactive fan zones
• A Guinness World Records™ medal ceremony for participants