Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
HARARE is about to explode with song and fire as Zimbabwe’s top community choirs lock horns in the Battle of the Best, a high-octane choral showdown set for 20 September.
With a grand prize of R10 000 and a trip to South Africa for the finals on the line, the capital will turn into a war zone of powerful voices, harmonies and thunderous applause.
“This event sprouted from the Tiro Mopane National Choir Festival last year, thanks to South African Best. But its origins trace back even further to when Old Mutual backed the National Choir Festival,” revealed Bonny B. Kayenze, the brains behind the event and Secretary-General of the Zimbabwe Association of Choral and Musical Arts.
Nationwide battle.
A jaw-dropping 16 choirs are set to compete, drawn from every corner of the country — Masvingo’s Vox, Mutare’s Dosa, Bulawayo’s Choristers, Chinhoyi’s finest and many more.
“Predicting a winner is impossible. Choral music is full of surprises. A newcomer could come out of nowhere and steal the show,” Kayenze declared.
Community choirs, famed for their size and firepower, are expected to dominate. But church choirs have also been invited to step into the ring. “A Methodist choir from South Africa once stole the spotlight. Anything can happen,” Kayenze warned.
Hurdles and hopes
Behind the glamour, organisers admit it’s no easy feat. “Our biggest hurdle is funding. We cover nearly all expenses ourselves. Live streaming is a nightmare without proper equipment, and transport issues plague us. Choir members pour their hearts and wallets into their passion. We need support to lighten their load,” said Kayenze.
The dream, however, is bigger than one night. “Yes, it’s already an annual event. Every year, bigger and better. With more help, we can grow the choral industry and expose more talent,” he added.
Kayenze is banking on partnerships, even from the government. “The Ministry has done wonders before. With more aid, we can elevate our talent to new heights.”
The stage is set. The voices are ready. On September 20, Harare becomes the battleground of choirs. Who will rise? Who will fall?
