In Highfield, the soulful sounds of mbira have long been a staple of the community's traditional tapestry.
Among talented musicians, who have kept this tradition alive is Durrel Nyazika, a gifted new generation mbira player whose passion for the instrument has recently garnered international attention.
Durrel's journey took an exciting turn when he shared a video of himself playing the mbira on social media.
The video, which showcased his exceptional skill and deep connection to the music, quickly went viral, capturing the hearts of viewers around the world.
Among those who were moved by Durrel's performance was Free the Music, a non-profit organisation based in the United States dedicated to supporting musicians in underserved communities.
Recognising Durrel's talent and the potential impact of his music, Free the Music decided to support him in a significant way.
The organisation, through the direct links of Mathew MacLean, aka Mateo, gifted Durel with state-of-the-art studio equipment worth several thousands of United States dollars.
This generous donation includes high-quality recording devices, mixing consoles, microphones, and other essential tools that will enable Durrel to produce professional-grade music.
Mateo recently visited Zimbabwe and had a chance encounter with Darell where they ended up sharing the stage at uptown restaurants in and around Harare.
The arrival of the equipment was a moment of immense joy and gratitude for Durrel.
“I am overwhelmed by the support and generosity of Free the Music,” he said.
“This equipment will not only help me to create better music, but also to share the beauty of the mbira with a wider audience.
“I am excited to see where this journey will take me.”
With his new studio setup, Durrel plans to record and produce his own music, blending traditional mbira sounds with contemporary influences.
He hopes to inspire other young musicians in Highfield and beyond to pursue their dreams and embrace their cultural heritage.
The story of Durrell is a testament to the power of music to connect people across borders and to the impact that support and recognition can have on an artist's career.
As Durrel continues to make music, his journey serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring musicians everywhere.