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Mthokozisi Ncube, mthokoncube3015gamil.com
BULAWAYO is preparing to host the next leg of the iJoy Afta Joy Choral Music Competition on Saturday, bringing together choirs from Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South in a celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich choral music tradition.
The nationwide contest, which began in Masvingo on December 12, has since toured several provinces, including Harare, Chitungwiza, Mashonaland East and the Midlands. After the Bulawayo leg, the competition will head to Manicaland on February 14 before concluding the provincial rounds in Mashonaland West and Mashonaland Central on February 21.
Choirs are competing for a share of US$17 500 in prize money, judged on vocal performance and stage presentation. Admission is free, with music lovers expected to attend in large numbers.
Organisers say the competition aims to nurture and promote local talent while preserving Zimbabwe’s strong choral culture. The national finals are scheduled for February 28 in Harare.
Zimbabwe Association of Choral and Music Arts (Zacma) secretary-general Bonny Kanyenze said the event has progressed well, crediting strong organisation and sponsorship support.
However, while most choirs have delivered impressive performances and turnout has been encouraging, Kanyenze noted that some groups withdrew due to church commitments, fasting programmes and tight preparation schedules. He said organisers will use the experience to refine planning and ensure more convenient dates in the future.
Despite the challenges, Kanyenze said hosting the competition early in the year helps activate choirs and supports their growth within churches and communities.
Online Reporter