IT took one group's courage for the choral music genre that has become known as Vapostori music to be recognised. It was never imagined that this type of music would one day steal the limelight from the established genres in the country. But Vabati VaJehovah persevered through trials and tribulations to record the first ever "Vapostori" music album at the turn of the millennium and now this type of music has become widespread.

Record companies that were initially dismissive of this type of music are now stampeding to have signatures of the numerous emerging Vapostori groups.

On Saturday, about 20 music groups from various apostolic sects in the country converge at the Harare Gardens for the second edition of the annual Vapostori Music Festival.

The inaugural festival was a resounding success last year and the organisers are looking forward to a bigger event.

Most of the groups that thrilled the audience at the previous edition are on the line-up for Saturday's show.

Among them are Vabati vaJehovah, Chiedza Chevatendi, Vabati Vevhangeri, Mabasa Avatumwa, Vachemeri Veshoko.

Vabati Vevhangeri gave the best performance last year but this year they will have to put an extra effort to beat Nama Award winners Mabasa Avatumwa.

The latter scooped the Outstanding Choral Group accolade at the awards ceremony last month.

Other groups taking part include Vashumiri Vedenga, Vakushi Vevhangeri, Zambuko Kuvanhu, Vadzidzi Vekutanga, Kukunda Kwavatendi and Chiedza Chenyika.

Vabati VaJehovah will be banking on their wide experience in the industry to make lasting impressions at the festival.

The group is also basking in the glory of its current hit, Handikusiyei .

A spokesperson of the group promised a great show saying they would play all their hits and give fans a memorable experience.

"Last year we did not expect such an enormous response and we are glad that people came in their numbers to support us," said the spokesperson.

"This year we are going to the festival with all the confidence and zeal.

"It is going to be a great show indeed because we have packaged the best selection of songs for the event.

"Fans will also sample one or two of our upcoming songs."

Tawanda Chingara of Red Rose Entertainment, which is organising the festival, is optimistic that this year's event would be bigger and better.

"We hope people will support the festival as they did last year. It is great to see how other music genres are gaining popularity," said Chingara.

BY OUR STAFF