Marimba band joins World Record attempt
VIBRANT: The CPUT marimba band
Thursday, 31 July 2025
The CPUT Marimba Band is set to participate in a Guinness World Records title attempt, scheduled to take place at the GrandWest Grand Arena next month.
Over 1 000 marimba players from across South Africa and Zimbabwe are coming together on 2 August to attempt a Guinness World Records 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 plans to double it – putting South Africa firmly on the global stage for a record-breaking celebration of culture, community and music.
It 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.
The ensemble will perform a ten-minute medley of “Waka Waka” and “Jerusalema", both powerful anthems of South African pride and unity. The record-breaking moment will be followed by a gold medal ceremony and a celebration concert featuring live entertainment from professional marimba bands, DJs, as well as a headline act from Goodluck! The event will feature Carl Wastie as the MC.
The attempt by social enterprise Marimba Jam will not be the first. 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 a Guinness World Records Adjudicator flying in from London, it’s all systems go.
Cherice Mangiagalli, Student Development Officer: Sport, Arts and Culture, said she was incredibly proud of the CPUT Marimba Band for their achievement in being approved to participate in this world record attempt.
“This is a significant accomplishment that reflects the band's dedication, talent, and the vibrant musical culture fostered at CPUT. Their participation in such a prestigious event not only highlights their individual skills but also showcases the university's commitment to arts and culture and its support for its students' endeavours. This recognition on a global stage is a testament to their hard work and a source of immense pride for the entire CPUT community."
Tickets for the event can be purchased here.
Written by CPUT News
Email: news@cput.ac.za
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