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Victor Maphosa Arts Reporter
Gweru-based gospel singer Anthia Mash has called for more exchange programmes in the arts to boost and develop the industry.
Mash, who leads a 14-member group — The Seraphim — made the revelation yesterday during a question-and- answer segment at the Youth Music Zone in Harare.
In an interview with The Herald Arts, Mash said having more exchange programmes with different countries opened doors for her.
“Back then we had more exchange programmes where artistes were invited to perform, attend workshops and seminars, sharing ideas that shaped the sector,” she said.
“These days it is all about promoting only renowned and established artists, not giving room to the upcoming stars. Again, musicians should not be ignorant of what is happening around the world, but should research and understand the dynamics of society as this helps them to grow.”
Mash said promoters should not shun upcoming musicians as they were the future.
“Of late, we tend to be neglected on most shows. How then should we be seen or heard?” she queried.
Mash said her group was working on a third album which should hit the airwaves in September.
She said her two albums did not do well because of poor marketing strategies and lack of appreciation from the locals.
Mash said most musicians were benefiting from live shows since piracy was taking much of their income.
She first made a name in the music industry in 2018 when she released an eight-track album titled “Makatirangarira”.
Last year, she unleashed another album titled “Mugona Zvose”.
Two songs from the seven-track album “Chatunga Chekudenga” and “Ndichibarwa” became instant hits among the Christian community.
Having started singing at a tender age, Mash draws her inspiration from established musicians who include Benjamin Dube, Takesure Zama, Chiwoniso Mararire and Pastor Tavaya.
Online Reporter