Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
Chitungwiza Harmony Singers (CHS) and Glorious Melodies Choir (GMC) will give fans a final taste of their artistry before heading to South Africa for the next round of the Tiro Mopane Choral Competition.
The two award-winning ensembles will host a joint send-off concert in Harare on December 13. The event is expected to showcase harmonies, artistic unity and the growing impact of Zimbabwean choral music on the regional stage.
Speaking on behalf of the choirs, Zimbabwe Association of Choral and Music Arts secretary Bonny B Kanyenze said the competition remains central to cultural development and benchmarking Zimbabwe’s talent across the region.
“When you have competitions, it means you’ve got room to work and develop. That’s one of the major aspects we benefit from,” he said.
Kanyenze noted that regional integration and cultural exchange are some of the most valuable outcomes of the event.
“The minute you meet people from Botswana and other countries, already we are dealing with different cultures. Some choirs bring music originally composed by their own people, which brings cultural identity,” he said.
Both CHS and GMC have reportedly invested heavily in preparations for Sun City.
“The two choirs were in camp last week. In some cases, they are even inviting international trainers. It is financially demanding, but the commitment is there to bring the silverware back home and raise the Zimbabwean flag so high.”
He added that competitions strengthen ensembles as they rehearse, refine and grow musically.
“This year, the Tiro Mopane team came to Zimbabwe and met government officials and the National Arts Council. That alone helps promote choral music and attract more sponsors.”
Visibility for the two groups has also surged as communities circulate flyers and invite relatives to the send-off concert.
“Chitungwiza is now recognised as a hub for choral music. Chitungwiza Harmony Singers introduced this culture, and it has influenced others,” Kanyenze said.
However, financial constraints remain a major hurdle.
“Choirs are struggling, choristers are struggling. There’s no funding. We’ve approached the government and remain very hopeful. Corporate support has been limited, especially towards year-end. It has been hectic trying to raise funds.”
Despite these challenges, Kanyenze expressed confidence in the teams.
“These guys have been working so hard. I’m definitely expecting a good result and a performance that shows what Zimbabwe is made of.”
He said beyond rankings, impact matters most.
“Even if a choir gets position 5, 6 or 7, as long as the performance is stuck in people’s heads, that’s important for us. We want both choirs to go out there and leave a mark.”
Government support has also been notable through the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe and the Ministry of Sports, Recreation, Arts and Culture. Last year, Permanent Secretary Nick Moyo was Guest of Honour at the CHS send-off, while this year Deputy Minister Emily Jesaya is expected to grace the upcoming event.
