AS part of the Africa Month celebrations, Dr Thokozani Mhlambi is returning to his roots in KwaZulu-Natal to perform at the KZNSA Gallery in Durban.

Mhlambi is known for incorporating art with music, having held an artistic residency at the prestigious Cite International des Arts in Paris France, and having his music used as a soundtrack for an exhibition at the Museum of Modern Art in New York. In this intimate concert, Mhlambi presents a set of Zulu songs, performed with cello and voice. He will be joined on stage by leading young voices in the music scene.

The showcase is set for Friday, May 27, and represents Mhlambi’s growing body of work.

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The concert is also a pause for reflection on the great archive of early African intellectuals who composed music for ensembles, choirs, and the wider public-at-large – most of whom were schooled in places like Ohlange, Marianhill, Adams College in KwaZulu-Natal and others in the Eastern Cape.

Mhlambi will be showcasing a multi-disciplinary programme that combines aspects of storytelling, opera voice, jazz rhythms, and African song.

The concert comes after an intensive research trip the musician has been conducting over the past few months, both in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal.

Mhlambi has been visiting museums and archives across the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal and researching the genius of early African intellectuals who composed music.

Mhlambi concludes his activities in the region through a musical concert, which will draw from this rich archive of African composers. The likes of Reuben Caluza, BP Tyamzashe, and Enoch Sontonga (composer of Nkosi Sikelela), to mention a few.

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“During the pandemic, most artists had more time for themselves than for their audiences. This gave me a chance to go deeper into my art. I hope audiences relate to my new sound. It’s not so different, but the post-pandemic atmosphere gives the music a fresh breath,” said Mhlambi.

Event Details

Date: Friday, May 27, 2022

Venue: KZNSA Gallery, 166 Bulwer Road (Glenwood)

Tickets: www.webtickets.co.za

Price: R100

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