Capturing the Rhythms of Heritage: A Visit to Albert Ssempeke’s House

 Capturing the Rhythms of Heritage: A Visit to Albert Ssempeke’s House
In the bustling heart of Kampala, Uganda, lies a treasure trove of musical tradition that bridges centuries of history and contemporary life. Albert Ssempeke, an acclaimed musician and one of the last custodians of the royal court music of the Buganda Kingdom, graciously opened his home to the Global Sound Movement (GSM) team in 2015. What followed was a deeply inspiring journey into the vibrant soundscapes of Uganda.

The Man Behind the Music
Albert Ssempeke is no ordinary musician. Born into a family of royal court musicians, Albert’s lineage is steeped in the ancient rhythms and melodies of the Buganda Kingdom. His father, the late Albert Ssempeke Sr., was the last official royal musician before the dissolution of the kingdom’s court in the 1960s. Carrying this legacy forward, Ssempeke has dedicated his life to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of his ancestors.

A Home Filled with Harmony
The moment we stepped into Albert’s house, it was clear this was more than just a home; it was a living archive of Buganda’s musical heritage. Instruments of every shape and size adorned the walls and floors, from the resonant endongo (a traditional eight-string bowl lyre) to the vibrant amadinda (a large wooden xylophone). Each instrument carried a story, a lineage, and a distinct voice.

Albert and his family welcomed us with warmth and enthusiasm, eager to share their knowledge and artistry. They performed pieces steeped in history, each note carrying echoes of courtly ceremonies, royal rituals, and community gatherings.

Capturing the Magic
During our visit, we set out to record the unique textures of Albert’s instruments. With careful precision, we documented the tonal richness of the amadinda, the rhythmic intricacies of the engalabi (a long drum), and the soulful resonance of the endongo. Each recording session became an intimate dialogue between the GSM team and Albert, where the exchange of ideas and cultural insights added depth to every sound captured.

One particularly moving moment was the recording of the akadinda, a colossal xylophone played by multiple musicians in intricate patterns. The interwoven rhythms were hypnotic, offering a glimpse into the collaborative spirit of Bugandan musical tradition.

Beyond Sound: The Spirit of Collaboration
Our visit to Albert Ssempeke’s house was not just about collecting sounds; it was about forging connections. Albert’s passion for preserving his heritage resonated deeply with GSM’s mission to celebrate and share the world’s cultural soundscapes. Together, we created a space where tradition and technology converged, ensuring these sounds could reach a global audience.

The Legacy Lives On
The recordings from Albert Ssempeke’s home are now part of GSM’s growing library of global sounds, available for musicians and creators worldwide to incorporate into their work. These sounds are more than just raw materials; they are living fragments of a culture that refuses to be forgotten.

Through Albert’s unwavering dedication and GSM’s collaborative efforts, the music of the Buganda Kingdom continues to inspire, educate, and connect people across the globe. Our journey to his house in Kampala was a poignant reminder of the power of music to transcend boundaries and keep history alive.

We invite you to explore the sounds of Uganda and be part of this incredible journey. Let’s celebrate the rhythms, melodies, and stories that unite us all.