The Jazz community in Zimbabwe is in for a treat this September as the much-anticipated 2024 edition of the Zimbabwe Jazz Festival, aptly named ‘Sizzling Rhythms,’ prepares to roll out in both Harare, the capital city, and Bulawayo, the City of Kings. Presented by the Zimbabwe Jazz Community Trust (ZJCT) in partnership with the Alliance Française in Zimbabwe, the festival promises a diverse and dynamic offering of jazz that will resonate with enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
By Plot Mhako
This year, the festival boasts an impressive lineup headlined by two special artists. Zimbabwe’s very own Paul Lunga, fondly known as the ‘King of Jazz Horns,’ will make a triumphant return from London, where he is currently based. A legend in Zimbabwe’s jazz history, Lunga has captivated audiences both at home and abroad with his signature Afrojazz sound for over three decades. Joining him as a headliner is the visiting Swiss singer-songwriter NNAVY, whose unique blend of R&B, soul, and jazz has won her acclaim at prestigious festivals such as the Montreux Jazz Festival and Jazz à Vienne. Her powerful and emotive stage presence will be a highlight of the festival, made possible by the Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe.
The festival kicks off in Bulawayo on Friday, September 20th, at the Alliance Française de Bulawayo on Heyman Road. From 6 to 10 PM, attendees can enjoy performances by Paul Lunga, NNAVY, George Phahlane, and Ngoma iNgoma, with tickets priced at US$10. The musical excitement continues the next day in Harare on Saturday, September 21st, where a solid eight hours of music from 2 to 10 PM will feature Paul Lunga, NNAVY, Prudence Katomeni-Mbofana, Agga Nyabinde, Rhythmic Pulse, Steve Chikotie, and the Hellenic Academy Big Band. This event will take place at the Alliance Française de Harare on Herbert Chitepo Avenue, with tickets available for US$20.
The Zimbabwe Jazz Community Trust, founded in 2016, has been instrumental in reviving, promoting, and preserving Zimbabwe’s rich jazz culture. Through a combination of high-quality performances and educational initiatives, the Trust aims to culturally enrich the nation and keep the spirit of jazz alive.”
Filbert Marova, the ZJCT’s Founder and Artistic Director, spoke on the meticulous process of selecting artists for the festival: “Each year, we embark on a meticulous search to identify the most exceptional artists who have demonstrated remarkable growth throughout the year. Our ‘Back 2 Jazzics’ weekly event and the latest releases by local artists serve as valuable scouting grounds. For international artists, we were particularly drawn to Paul Lunga, a UK-based Zimbabwean trumpeter whose contributions to the jazz industry are nothing short of phenomenal. The Swiss singer NNAVY also captured our attention with her meteoric rise in the past year. Ultimately, our artist selection is driven by a fervent passion for diversity and innovation within the jazz genre.”
Robert Basvi, Chairperson of the ZJCT, expressed gratitude to the festival’s sponsors: “The ZJCT is very grateful to the main sponsors that have remained consistent in sponsoring the annual Zimbabwe Jazz Festival, in particular the French Embassy, the Alliance Française Harare and Alliance Française Bulawayo. Special thanks and credit must go to The Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe, who have facilitated the joining of the celebrated NNAVY, to grace our festival this year.”
The ZJCT Board of Trustees is composed of a diverse group of professionals dedicated to the advancement of jazz in Zimbabwe, including Chairperson Robert Basvi, Filbert Marova, Kumbula Chiweza, Tinashe Mukarati, and the newest member, Blessing Chaumba. Promotional assistance for the festival is provided by Kunzwana Trust, known for its dedication to promoting Zimbabwean artists and instrument-makers.
The 2024 Zimbabwe Jazz Festival is set to be an unforgettable celebration of jazz, culture, and community. Whether in Harare or Bulawayo, jazz lovers are in for a sizzling experience this September.”
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