CHITUNGWIZA Harmony Singers, one of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated choral ensembles, are once again proving why they are a national treasure.
Fresh off their championship victory at the Tiro Mpane Foundation National Choral Eisteddfod (TMF-NCE) Zimbabwe Regional Eliminations, the choir is preparing to represent the nation at the TMF-NCE Finals, set to take place from December 13 to 15, 2024, at the iconic Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg, South Africa.
The highly-anticipated finals will bring together southern Africa’s finest choral talents, with competitors from South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, and Eswatini joining Zimbabwe’s own champions in a showcase of unparalleled vocal artistry.
For Chitungwiza Harmony Singers, this is more than just a competition — it is an opportunity to highlight Zimbabwe’s rich choral traditions and stand tall on an international stage.
“We are incredibly honoured to represent Zimbabwe at this prestigious event,” said Judith Gwande, marketing and communications manager for the choir.
“Our victory at the regional eliminations was a testament to the talent, discipline, and passion of our team. Now, as we head to Johannesburg, we aim to showcase the heart and soul of Zimbabwe through our music.”
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The TMF-NCE Finals are renowned for their ability to bring diverse cultures together through music.
For Chitungwiza Harmony Singers, this stage is a platform to celebrate the beauty of Zimbabwean choral traditions while fostering cultural exchange with their Southern African counterparts.
“This is more than a competition for us,” Gwande explained.
“It’s a chance to engage in a cultural dialogue, to share the unique sounds of Zimbabwe with the world, and to learn from other choirs across the region. Music is a universal language, and we’re excited to contribute our voice to this vibrant conversation.”
The choir has been working tirelessly in rehearsals to perfect their performance, striving to uphold their reputation as one of Zimbabwe’s finest.
However, logistical challenges remain.
While the TMF-NCE organisers have generously offered to cover transport, two nights’ accommodation, and breakfast for performing members, the choir is actively seeking additional support to cover meals and costs for non-performing members.
“Our goal is to ensure that every member of the choir can be part of this incredible journey,” said Gwande.
“We are calling on stakeholders, fans and well-wishers to help make this dream a reality. Together, we can ensure that our team represents Zimbabwe with pride and excellence.”
As the choir’s departure date of December 10 approaches, excitement is building both within the group and across the nation.
For Zimbabwe, Chitungwiza Harmony Singers’ participation in the TMF-NCE Finals is a source of immense pride and a demonstration of the power of music to unite, inspire, and elevate communities.
“Zimbabwe has always been a nation of resilience and creativity,” Gwande said.
“This journey reflects those values, and we are humbled to have the support of our country as we take this next step.”