Marimba teacher
Imvula Music Program, Gugulethu South Africa
Vuyani Dyoli is a marimba performer and music instructor from Phillippi, a township near Cape Town, South Africa. He grew up in Phillippi and attended Parkhurst Primary and Vuyiseka Secondary School. He later completed short courses in welding, woodwork, mechanics, and office administration.
Vuyani’s journey in music began in 2008 when he followed the sound of marimbas to the Marcus Garvey Lutheran Community Center. That moment sparked a lifelong passion. By 2012, he had formed his own band, and in 2014, joined the group Native Young, with whom he toured Europe and Africa, performing at major festivals like Fusion Festival and winning the 2017 Summer Awards in Johannesburg.
From 2016 to 2022, Vuyani taught marimba to high school students at Beautiful Gate in Lower Crossroads. He also worked as a music teacher at the Lutheran Community Center, Ithemba Labantu, from 2020 to 2024. Today, he continues to perform and share his love of marimba with the next generation.
Vuyani believes music helps with emotional balance and keeps young people away from negative influences. Inspired by artists like Brenda Fassie, Bob Marley, Masego, and Alex Serra, he teaches students not only how to play but how to compose, lead a band, and stay disciplined. His proudest moments include seeing his students perform and win competitions, like the Stellenbosch University music competition in 2023.
