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disbanded as the members left high school.
They performed their own versions of songs by South African jazz icons like Jimmy Dludlu, Bheki Mseluku and Abraham Laboriel among others.
Director of the group Elias Mapiya said music unites the people.
“I am happy with what the boys managed to perform and they proved it that though they are the juniors, there was no difference with last year’s boys,” he said.
Mapiya said that though the first day witnessed a low turnout, the band had a fine outing given the addition of new instruments added another dimension to their set.
“I understand it’s the first day and that was the only act we had. Our addition of the horns and keyboards managed to lure the crowd and we achieved that,” he said.
Commenting on Hifa, Mapiya said it is a time not only to socialise but to learn different cultural aspects.
Captain of the jazz band, Tafadzwa Manyika (16) said he was happy with what his group displayed.
“This is our first time to perform at such big events. We learned how to handle the crowd,” he said.
Manyika who plays the piano praised the Hifa organisers for the opportunity.
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. I thank the festival organisers for such platform to showcase talents and we learnt a lot. Having people from different countries under one roof means a lot as we learn and exchange cultural skills and ideas of which it’s a tick to the festival,” he said.
Hifa is running under the theme, ‘What’s Next’ and the festival is in its 13th year. Last year the Coca-Cola Green stage hosted artistes like Blackbird, Winky D, Ba-Shupi and Stunner.
Online Reporter