Prince Edward High School marimba and jazz music ensembles have made their mark on the arts scene performing at the 13th edition of the Harare chapter of Songs from a Room (Sofar).
The iconic academic institution has a rich history of nurturing and producing trailblazers in academia, sports and music.
PE, as the school is affectionately known, has been a launch pad for some of the country’s most influential figures.
Last Saturday, music lovers braved the chilly weather and were joined by parents to watch diverse performances featuring the seasoned artistry of local Afro RnB, gospel artist Bryan K and Afro-traditional folk music artist Tendex.
First off was the PE jazz band. They played Seven Summers by Shaun Martin and the timeless Skokiana, they also sampled music by Jimi Dludlu.
Band captain Takunda Maruba (piano), Lincoln Mwandiyambira (trumpet), Munyaradzi Mapondera (trumpet), Mutsawashe (lead guitar), Joshua Mangwendeza (bass guitar), Fibion Mangoma (congas) and Anotida Nhundu (congas) left the audience in awe with their skill and brilliant instrument-playing abilities.
Keep Reading
- The Soccer Whiz: It’s coming home, it’s coming home
- SuperSport sack Tembo
- School of sport: It’s my job
- School of sport: Plan and play
Starting in the 1990s, the band has groomed musicians such as the late Samson “Sam” Mtukudzi, Tinashe Mukarakati and Takakunda Mukundu, among others. The school has an effective music programme where music theory is taken as a compulsory subject from Form 1.
Its music department has received acknowledgment from the diplomatic community. Last month, their brass band was invited to perform at the birthday party celebrations of King Charles III of England.