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VISITING Malawian singer and instrumentalist, Patrick Chimbewa, has praised Zimbabwean musicians for the love and unity they showed him during his tour of the country.
The 29-year-old, who had come for a camping trip with Tamba Africa, said he was still surprised with the hospitality.
In an interview with H-Metro, Chimbewa, who plays the Sansiba instrument, said he will come back to Zimbabwe for other musical projects.
“I was surprised how the people here welcomed me, even the guys from Tamba Africa. I noticed that musicians here are united and they do not discriminate against other people.
“From my stay, I also realised that there are not many differences in our cultures,” said Chimbewa.
The singer said he managed to interact, exchanging cultural values and ideas, with Zimbabwean musicians.
He is set to do collaborations with Prudence Katomene-Mbofana, Mbira Dzenharira, Ninga Dzenharira, among other mbira groups.
During his tour, he also travelled to South Africa, where he taught students at University of Cape Town, how to play mbira and his own instrument, Sansibar.
Chimbewa crafted the Sansiba using two calabashes.
During his visit to Zimbabwe, Chimbewa joined Florence “The Lioness” Nyamazana, in celebrating her 39th birthday in Mutare.
“People from Manicaland proved they like mbira and they liked my instrument as well.
“I just combined the mbira and trumpet to come up with one instrument that serves two roles,” he said.
The Lioness, who is the leader of Ninga Dzenharira, hailed Chimbewa’s visit.
“I am very delighted that Patrick graced my birthday bash and we hosted three shows in Mutare where he showed off his talent.
“Much thanks to Mr (Esau) Mupfumi from Mutare and Manicaland people for hosting us and people actually enjoyed Patrick’s talent.”
Online Reporter