One of the fathers of Xitsonga music, Daniel Shirinda (71), never attended school, but a local teacher recently obtained a Masters’ Degree for a thesis on Shirinda’s music.

When Thomas Mahuntsi, a teacher at Nkatini High School in Malamulele, graduated at the University of Venda with a Masters’ degree on September 16 last year, his thesis had been on Shirinda´s music. A fortnight ago, Mahuntsi presented a copy of his thesis to the respected musician, known as General, at a function held at his home in Makhasa Village.

The title of his study is A Critical Analysis of MD Shirinda’s songs with Special References to their message, theme, value to society and the usage of language. Mahuntsi also said he decided to study Shirinda’s works, because he was one of the founders of Xitsonga music and his music influenced numerous other musicians.

"As a requirement for my degree, I selected 17 of Shirinda’s songs in accordance with life in general and found that some promoted health, moral standards as well as religion," said Mahuntsi.

He said that in the study, he did not only rely on his opinion and interpretation, but consulted broadly, including Shalati Joseph Khosa, one of the most well-known choral masters and Masengahuku Lucas Mabale, one of the most famous radio announcers, who was a popular announcer at the time Shirinda’s music dominated the air waves.

"All of them agreed that the man’s music was more valuable than he is accredited for," said Mahuntsi.

A member of the family, Pastor Simon Shirinda thanked Mahuntsi for giving credit where credit was due. He said his family felt honoured.

Shirinda was last year honoured by his family for having raised such a big brood of children some of whom have become professionals in different fields. The much respected musician has six wives and 44 children.