Afro-traditional folk artist Tendex and Afro RnB, gospel artist Bryan K shared the stage with the Prince Edward High School marimba and jazz music ensembles becoming the latest additions to perform on the Sofar Songs From A Room (Sofar) platform.

The talented artists performed during Sofar Harare’s 13th edition hosted in the Prince Edward High School auditorium on June 29.

The PE jazz band was first in the line-up, playing cover versions notably ‘Seven Summers’ by Shaun Martin and Jimmy Dludlu classics among other songs.

After receiving thunderous applause, they made way for the marimba band, consisting of Kudakwashe Mudehwe (baritone), Tsakani Nanjeese (soprano), Takunda Zishiri (bass), Joel Magade (tenor) and Donnell Chigonde (tenor).

With their hands moving in a fluid motion and striking the wood with a gentle yet firm touch, the band mesmerised the audience as they remixed traditional Shona folk songs, including Jari Mukaranga and urban pop songs like Case’s, I’m Missing You (2001).

The Marimba band is a prestigious musical ensemble consisting of two distinct groups, mainly the junior band made up of students, in the early stages of their musical development, focusing on cultivating fundamental skills and techniques. The senior band comprises advanced musicians, who demonstrate exceptional artistry and can showcase a diverse repertoire that exemplifies musical maturity and a profound understanding of complex arrangements.

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“Sofar stands out as one of the best concerts I have attended this year. Thank you very much for considering the school to be part of it,” Tatenda Nyatsunga, a school music teacher, told Standard Style.

Tendex’s set featured a skillful combination of his amazing vocal range, a mbira instrument, shakers and a loop station that transformed his performance into a mesmerising experience that left the audience in awe of his artistry. With each layer of sound that he added, his voice merged in perfect harmony, creating a haunting and uplifting sound.

“My experience performing at Sofar was incredible. The event’s organisation is impressive and different from most shows I have been to in Zimbabwe. The audience comes sorely to listen and appreciate the music and art,” he explained.

Bryan K closed the show with an exhibition of impeccable guitar-playing skills coupled with his distinctive silky, soulful vocals. His specially selected list of songs, including the song ‘Heavy Machine,’ resonated with the audience that drifted along to his warm and rich guitar tones that filled the auditorium with a cosy atmosphere. The artist has released five studio albums, three EPs and several singles.

Music enthusiast Desmond Machingura expressed his appreciation for the diverse artist lineup and the overall curation of the event. “I absolutely enjoyed performances of well-known Zimbabwean artists, but what was surprising for me was how talented the musicians from the jazz and marimba bands are,” he said.

Sofar is a community of music curators and artists. It is visible in over 400 cities across the world. Concerts that took place on the same day in other cities include Drøbak (Norway), Dakar (Senegal), and Grand Rapids in Michigan, USA.