Published by the government of Zimbabwe
5 November 2009
Harare — AFTER successful whirlwind tours of the United Sates, three local music outfits Bongo Love, Mbira Dzemuninga and Matemai will perform in Harare tomorrow at the Tigashire Welcome Concert at Taste of Africa Restaurant.
It will be a chance for locals to watch the groups in action after having impressed during their tour of the United States which saw them holding gigs in Washington State, Colorado, New Mexico, California, Oragon and Boston, among others.
A spokesman for the organisers said the concert was meant to encourage a deeper appreciation of local mbira and marimba music.
"If you go out there in the United States there are over 100 bands in one state alone that are playing mbira and marimba.
"They appreciate our music deeply despite being foreigners and they are sending their children to colleges to learn our music.
"Looking at this, you begin to wonder what our music will be like in the next 100 years.
"We are going to end up importing our music if we are not careful about preserving it locally," said the spokesman.
He added: "The concert also seeks to encourage the sharing of experiences and interaction of artistes and their local fans while at the same time showcasing local talent."
Mbira Dzemuninga which was formed in November last year after breaking away from Mawungira Enharira has been on tour in the United States since early May.
Matemai also flew to the US in May while Bongo Love left in late June.
Bongo Love had the opportunity to perform at the annual Zimfest while in the United States before touring Canada for two weeks.
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