Amateurs have no place at Hifa

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A lot of work is put in place to make the festival exciting, entertaining and worthwhile for the general public. What a “Show of Spirit” it was! The diversity of expressions and art forms was the basis on which the festival stands out as a unique platform, which has received worldwide acclaim.

Those coming from other countries always leave with a different view of who we are as Zimbabweans as the standard of performances and presentations stand out and match world-class festivals.
Did you know that some festivals around the world today before they can give our local artistes an opportunity to perform they will ask them if they have performed at Hifa before and if not chances are that they won’t be accepted.

One of the most fulfilling experiences for any artiste is the opportunity to travel around the world and get an opportunity to perform on different platforms. I totally agree with one of the most common statements I saw in one of Hifa daily bulletins read: “Talent and passion can get you far”.
During the festival I tried my best to attend most of the shows on the programme but failed to do so due to circumstances beyond my control. However, two local artistes that stood out as solid and ready to conquer the world are Hope Masike and Winky D.

If you have beef with the “Bigman” then you may need to resolve your position because the man is climbing even higher by the day. He gave an amazingly top class act which moved with such spirit, art and creativity that the crowds could not resist the vibes.

Song after song the “Bigman” demonstrated that he’s not a one-hit wonder but he makes hit songs for a living.
The Global Stage set-up was an intimate affair between the artiste and the audience and as usual the audience just sit and watch, meditate as well as appreciate the art.

It was a different story as Hope went through her repertoire of both inspiring and entertaining songs. It was evident to all that she has found her music formula and her energy was a real show of spirit.
As much as the audiences wanted to sit and enjoy the show, they ended up on their feet rocking to her music. I would like to see Hope on the Main Stage next year.

I used to think that the several venues like Coca-Cola Green, Global Stage and Telecel Main Stage or First Street Mall represented the status of the artistes but after a closer look I discovered that all the venues were of international standards. Hifa is not for amateurs.
One of the music consultants, Melody Zambuko, confirmed that this giant festival is an opportunity for locals to enhance their profiles and market themselves to the world over and not necessarily about the dollar.

Yes, money issues continue to be discussed but one needs to look beyond the festival and take advantage of the benefits that come with being a part of the programming at Hifa each year.
During preparations artistes are encouraged to package their works into promotional packs which can be passed onto relevant and influential people who come to the festival. International producers, promoters and captains of industry attend Hifa thereby giving the artistes an opportunity to win their hearts and create even more opportunities for themselves after Hifa.

The big question then is what is an international artist? During this festival local artistes always get an opportunity to collaborate with other musicians and get to learn and expand their horizons. I picked up some views from some artistes both local and international.
Blessing Chimanga, a drummer, said collaborations were good for every musician. Songwriter and singer Prayer Soul said he learnt more about management, bookings and music business. Well done Hifa for the great showcase especially the closing show.