Thabisa Dinga

Short Bio

Thabisa Dinga is a South African musician and interdisciplinary artist who innovatively reinterprets traditional indigenous instruments for modern performances, particularly focusing on Southern African musical bows like the uhadi, umrhubhe, and umakhweyane. Currently finalizing her master's degree in music at the University of Cape Town, her research integrates traditional bow techniques with contemporary technology, aiming to enhance their expressive potential while honoring their cultural significance. In 2024-2025, Thabisa participated in the Staatliche Hochschule für Gestaltung Karlsruhe exchange program, during which she engaged in performances and collaborative projects that included exploring electronic amplification, delivering lectures on bow traditions, and creating interactive audience experiences. Simultaneously, she teaches African stringed instruments at UCT, fostering innovative approaches among her students. Thabisa's performances have reached a diverse audience across South Africa and Germany and have been featured at international festivals throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa, highlighting the versatility of African bows in various artistic contexts.