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thoroughly entertaining.
Mezzotono’s full sound and perfect harmonies mesmerised the crowd as they effortlessly switched musical genres; ranging from jazz spiced with scat singing, bossa nova, mambo, tango, classic music, swing, to a touch of hip hop.
“Every member of the group is an accomplished, versatile and seasoned singer in their own right,” said band member Marco Giuliani in an interview during the festival.
The highly talented collective gave a captivating performance as they showcased extensive vocal ranges; superbly executing renditions of Italian traditional songs and some popular international anthems.
Mezzotono’s unique approach incorporates comical gags and light theatricals that motivated the audience to fully participate in an extraordinary musical journey through Italian culture. The music they presented provided valuable insights into the Italian way of life. They touched on themes based on everyday experiences such as food, marketplaces, love and the beautiful cities of their homeland.
Performing as an orchestra with no instruments, the acappella ensemble’s show was entirely executed using vocal sounds to mimic different instruments, including drums, percussion, acoustic bass, guitar and the mandolin, a popular Italian traditional instrument.
In line with the Italian embassy’s cultural programme whose main focus is to promote meaningful cultural exchange amongst artists and audiences, Mezzotono conducted a workshop at Alliance Francaise. The workshop was held in conjunction with the Magnets, a British acappella group that also performed of Hifa.
The well-attended seminar allowed for a lively exchange of tips on acappella performance and vocal improvisation. Participants to the workshop included high school students and key personalities from the local choral scene.
“Our culture exchange program places a great emphasis on artistic interaction. The key results of this initiative include Dudu Manhenga’s successful tours and performances in Italy and the Zimbo-Ita collaboration between Blessing Chimanga and Italian musicians that is currently involved in a busy international tour schedule,” said the Italian Embassy’s cultural attaché, Robyn Koen on the sidelines of the workshop.
Mezzotono was brought to Hifa with the support of sponsors who have a long standing partnership with the Italian Embassy in its cultural initiatives. These include FBC Bank, Freight World, Telecel, Ethiopian Airlines, Rainbow Tourism Group, Progressive Insurance, Sontine Travel, Dante Alighieri, the Italian Club and Puglia Sounds.
Online Reporter