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“The dates clashed with the elections and we noticed that our posters would be submerged by political posters, so we have moved the event to August,” said Hozheri, proprietor of leading jazz joint Jazz 105.
Hozheri said they were currently in talks with South African artistes to grace the event.
“Some South African artistes have confirmed their participation in the festival. We are still negotiating with Hugh Masekela,” he said.
In the previous editions some non-jazz musicians have been invited to play at the festival, but this year it is strictly jazz affair.
“In previous editions non-jazz artistes such as Suluman Chimbetu and Jah Prayzah have played at the event, but this year it is a strictly jazz affair with local jazz artistes such as Victor Kunonga and Bob Nyabinde headlining the event,” he said.
Last year, South African-based Zimbabwean jazz prodigy Max Vidima headlined the festival teaming up with more than 20 Zimbabwean musicians to entertain jazz connoisseurs at the festival that was held over five days.
Max shared the stage with Jabavu Drive, The Cool Crooners, Willom Tight, Selmor Mtukudzi, Munyaradzi Mataruse, bass guitar wizard Josh Meck and Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, who was making her debut appearance at the premier jazz fest.
Apart from Max’s inclusion, the other major highlight of the event was the mix of both old and young musicians, who gave revellers a mixed bag of the genres dating back to the 1960s and 1970s to the modern era.
Men of the moment Suluu and Jah Prayzah also performed at the festival to spice up things with their dendera and contemporary vibes.
This year will see a host of local jazz musicians combining forces to make sure that this annual event is a success.
Local artistes earmarked for the festival include the group Too Open, Steve Makoni, Svosve and Yafele, Nyabinde, Willis Wataffi, Kunonga, Dudu Manhenga, Rute Mbangwa, Mbare Trio, Prince Edward Jazz Band, The Cool Crooners, Churchill High, Summer Breeze and Jabavu Jazz Band.
Now in its 13th year, the festival has become the premier jazz event in Zimbabwe and gives jazz musicians a chance to share the stage with some of their international counterparts.
It also provides a platform for identifying, promoting and nurturing upcoming jazz talents.
Online Reporter