dyton mupawaenda
Trust Khosa
SHOWBIZ stalwarts, Clive “Mono” Mukundu and Victor Kunonga, yesterday joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Jazz Day, which is celebrated in more than 190 countries.
In November 2011, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) officially designated April 30 as International Jazz Day.
The move was aimed at highlighting jazz, and its diplomatic role of uniting people, across the world.
“The International Jazz Day is a very important occasion in jazz circles,” said Mukundu.
“The fact that we have a day dedicated to this genre shows that it is still being respected.
“We have a serious jazz community in Zimbabwe, which is particular about this genre since it is associated with the elite and mature people.”
He added:
“Jazz shows or festivals are known for attracting big spenders where there are no cases of violence or people losing their gadgets.
“This evening (yesterday),we have something that we are organising with Josh Meck, Victor Kunonga, Rute Mbangwa, Prudence Katomene and Nicholar Mutuwa at the Zimbabwe Germany Society to mark the day.
“We will make it bigger in future editions in our quest to promote the jazz culture.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Kunonga.
“It’s a very important day set aside by UNESCO since it allows us to reflect on the genre.
“However, its appeal is now subdued due to economic challenges since it’s hard for a jazz outfit to stay afloat.
“What is now important is that we are trying our best as jazz players to remain afloat doing what we know best. There is something that we are going to do with my friends like Mono and Josh Meck so that we commemorate the special day on the international music calendar,” he said.
He urged fellow artists to remain focused on their work.
“As jazz artists, we need to remain dedicated to our work to ensure that jazz lives on.”
Bongani Ndlovu
Mathew Masinge