In a bold display of unity, rhythm and youthful joy, over 1,000 marimba players from across South Africa and Zimbabwe are coming together on Saturday, 2 August 2025, at the GrandWest Grand Arena, to attempt a Guinness World RecordsTM Title for the Largest Marimba Ensemble in the World.
The event, themed “United in Harmony”, will not only attempt to dethrone Guatemala’s standing record of 505 players but double it – putting South Africa firmly on the global stage for a record-breaking celebration of culture, community and music.
Marimba Jam
The visionary behind this powerful initiative is Kiara Ramklass, founder of Marimba Jam, who has spent the past decade building an organisation dedicated to spreading the joy of marimba music to schools across the country.
“South African marimbas are tuned in C major – it’s almost impossible to feel sad when you hear them. They create this magical, happy energy. That’s what we’re sharing with the world on the 2nd of August,” says Kiara, who first fell in love with the marimba 18 years ago in school.
The event is expected to bring together players aged 8 to 62, from over 70 schools and institutions, representing every province in South Africa and two schools from Zimbabwe. Marimba bands are even travelling thousands of kilometres – with one team from KZN flying in just after their matric dance, and others loading their marimbas onto trucks from Durban and Johannesburg.
And yes, every marimba counts in a record-breaking moment like this.
This is not the first time Marimba Jam has tried to make history. Back in 2018, they gathered 241 girls on Women’s Day to unofficially break Australia’s standing record – but without the official Guinness World Records stamp due to resource constraints. Now, with full international oversight and an adjudicator flying in from London, it’s all systems go.
“This event is more than just breaking a record,” says Kiara. “It’s about showing what’s possible when we come together across socio-economic divides – private schools, township schools, rural schools – all on one stage. It’s a loud, joyful message of ubuntu.”
The ensemble will perform a ten-minute medley of Waka Waka and Jerusalema, both powerful anthems of South African pride and unity. These familiar tunes are a nod to the country’s rich cultural history – one that celebrates togetherness, resilience and rhythm.
Get tickets on Quicket. Doors open at 4pm and the world record attempt will take place at 5.30pm. The evening will end with a celebration concert featuring local South African artists.
In addition to the record attempt, the day will include a live performance from South African band, Goodluck, live art installations, marimba demos, djembe drumming workshops, photo booths, virtual reality experiences, and a medal ceremony where each participant receives an official Guinness World RecordsTM medallion.
What: Guinness World RecordsTM Title for the Largest Marimba Ensemble in the World
When: Saturday 2 August 2025
Doors: Open at 4pm, event starts at 5.30pm
Where: GrandWest Grand Arena, Cape Town
Tickets: Quicket From R79
Information
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WS
