Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE 15th International Jazz Day, celebrated worldwide on April 30, will also be celebrated in Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwe Jazz Community (ZJC) is set to lead the celebrations by uniting people, foster intercultural dialogue and promote freedom of expression through song and dance.
It was officially proclaimed by UNESCO in 2011 and initiated by pianist and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock.
The Zimbabwe chapter is led by pianist and music teacher Filbert Marova.
Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, Agga Nyabinde, Fadz and Friends and the Harare All Jazz Stars are set to take part at the Harare Chapter celebrations.
In Bulawayo, all the attention would be on the mighty Cool Crooners.
“Our goal is to create a high-end cultural experience that celebrates the evolution of Zimbabwean jazz — from its traditional roots to contemporary fusion — while providing a platform for spontaneous creative collaboration.
“We have assembled a ‘Dream Team’ of ZIMA-award-winning artists to ensure a world-class performance,” he said.
To ensure there is variety, there will be a mixture of session musicians.
There will also be an open mic session.
The house band will facilitate an “open mic” session for the jazz musicians in attendance, creating a unique, once-in-a-lifetime performance.
With jazz venues being a major challenge in Zimbabwe, Marova said they chose The Grub because it provides an intimate, upscale atmosphere that perfectly complements the “Smooth Jazz” vibes of FadZ & FrenZ and the storytelling of Agga Nyabinde.
Nyabinde, who is both an arts administrator with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and a musician from a rich jazz background, believes that International Jazz Day should be celebrated in style.
“The International Jazz Day is a special occasion for players in this genre because it is perceived to be music for mature listeners,” Nyabinde said.
“Of course, its appeal has declined due to a number of factors, including a shortage of jazz venues, but it is here to stay.
“We want to pass this generation on to future generations by celebrating the day with other players, stakeholders, and fans — so that we can see how long it will last forever.”
Ace jazz promoter Josh Hozheri concurred with Nyabinde. “As a promoter and jazz fanatic, April 30 is a special occasion because we are joining other nations in celebrating this major milestone—the International Jazz Day proclaimed by UNESCO,” Hozheri said.
“Of course, jazz is not for everyone, but for the few—mature people who understand music.
“To ensure that jazz remains relevant in Zimbabwe, there is a need for sponsorship and venues where it can be played.
“By the way, [The Grub/your venue name] is known for attracting big spenders, and I’m glad to have played my part in ensuring jazz remains relevant.”
Hozheri, who has been running several festivals, including the Winter Jazz Festival and the Moving Jazz Café, added:
“April 30 is the day where I take stock of my achievements and assess how best we can promote this particular genre.
“It’s a genre that I love, and I am determined to do my best to promote this sector.”
Mathew Masinge