Bulawayo celebrates World Music Day

This article was first published in Bmetro.co.zw

Saturday the 20th of June 2015 saw Bulawayo Artists converge at the Bulawayo Centre to celebrate World Music Day in association with Alliance Française.

Fete de la Musique was launched in Paris in 1982 by the French ministry for Culture to make music free and accessible to everyone. It is held annually in more than 460 cities around the world. And this year marked its 3rd Anniversary in the City of Kings and Queens where it has been successfully organized by Alliance Francaise in partnership with the Bulawayo Centre.

The day featured a special performance from Afro-Jazz artist Jeys Marabini and his band. Having established himself as one of the best musicians to come out of Zimbabwe, Jeys Marabini delivered above expectations. The icon’s mature Afro sound, calm and rich appealed to every music lover in the audience.

Amongst Jeys’ band was Dumi Nyongolo who went solo four years ago after working as a backing vocalist and percussionist for him. Nyongolo’s vocal ability and dance moves kept the crowd entertained.  Not to be out done were marimba group, the Rainbow blaze, who warmed up the audience with the rhythmic sound. Performances from Harmonic Rhythms, Farai and the Hippies, Amy, Rico Andrews, and Nama award winner Qeqeshiwe Mntambo added sparks to the musical atmosphere.

Jeys Marabini acknowledged the World Music Day and its organizers for promoting local music. “We are very happy that Alliance Francaise invited us to perform today, it has been a wonderful experience to share stage with artists coming specifically from Bulawayo,” he said.
In an interview with the Alliance Française director Marie-Helene Predhom said that the World Music Day offers a platform for all participants. It is open to both amateur and professional musicians who are willing to perform during the day. “The first time we did this project was three years ago in 2013, this year is the third year, and it is growing, you can see every time there are more people,” she added.

Artists who were part of the commemorations applauded Alliance Francaise for appreciating what Bulawayo has to give in both music and art. They praised the people who came through and encouraged them to keep supporting local music.  Local Artists who were amongst the audience called upon the Cooperate world and the Government to invest in the Arts Industry as this specific industry has the ability to contribute positively to Zimbabwe’s economy.