Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu [email protected]
BULAWAYO’S Ndwe on Her collective could be headed for a cross-border musical collaboration with South Africa’s KZN Philharmonic Orchestra after the two ensembles explored the possibilities of fusing their distinct sounds.
The potential partnership emerged during a cultural exchange programme in Bulawayo, where members of the KwaZulu-Natal-based orchestra joined the city’s creative community for an evening blending contemporary African music, classical instrumentation and audience participation.
Ndwe on Her — comprising S’coo Madonko, Luchi Shiki, MKBeats and JustLeo, with links to Bulawayo and Victoria Falls — was at the centre of the exchange as it celebrated the launch of its EP, Mix Masala, at Acoustic Fridays at The Oasis Creators’ Hub.
The visiting musicians did more than observe, joining the performances and hinting at the possibility of taking the exchange into the studio.
KZN Philharmonic Orchestra manager and pianist/vocalist Christof Spies said he was impressed by Ndwe on Her’s performance and suggested that a collaboration could be on the cards.
“We just saw Scoo performing a song based on a Biblical chapter, Psalms 23, we performed our own and who knows, we might be hitting the studio and probably feature these artistes (Ndwe on Her),” Spies said.
While no formal recording project has been confirmed, Spies said songwriting and joint studio sessions were among activities planned for the delegation’s visit, providing an opportunity to turn the idea into a musical project.
The KZN Philharmonic delegation includes Nicola Botha on violin, Clara De la Guerre on cello, Margrit Deppe on oboe and piano, Neil Smit on French horn, and Spies on piano and vocals.
Their presence added a classical dimension to the launch of Mix Masala, which evolved into a highly participatory gathering, with audiences joining the musicians in song and dance.
For Ndwe on Her, the event was an opportunity to showcase the collective’s musical identity. Its name translates to “Crown on Her!”, reflecting its celebration of women and African identity through music.
The group performed songs from the EP, including Nqobile, featuring Bulawayo rapper Brintz, as well as African Woman, Mr DJ and Lobola Day.
