OPINION: McCoy Mrubata jazz concert was something exceptional
Words cannot adequately do justice to the skill and talent of the artists - this had to be heard and experienced.
We had the honour and privilege of attending the Umngqungqo Wabantu presentation at Margate Art Museum with award-winning saxophonist and recording artist McCoy Mrubata and other exceptional musicians last weekend.
What an exceptional evening.
Mrubata was invited by legendary, internationally renowned, award-winning pianist Andile Yenana who, together with poet and writer Zanele Luhabe, are the talented team behind the Umngqungqo Wabantu project (celebration of the people).
They are passionate about inspiring the youth’s love and appreciation of music.
The other musicians were Sandile Cele on violin, Thuto Motseme on bass, Nick Pittman on electric guitar, Ntokozo Nsibande on trumpet, Sbu Ncube on drums, along with singer Hlubi Khwebulana (Mrubuta’s nephew) and the Iqongalakho Vocal Ensemble.
Mrubata also produces, teaches and spends a lot of time, as he puts it, simply being a family man.
He is achieving his ambition. The jazz concert was the most exceptional concert I have ever been to.
Each musician was exceptional in his own field and the music, all original music by the artists, showcased individual expertise so that one knew they were in the presence of South African greats.
I have never seen fingers move as quickly and expertly as the pianist Yenana’s floating across the ivory keys.
Yenana is now sowing his expertise and passion into the future generation as he lectures at Esayidi College Gamalakhe TVET Campus.
The South Coast in indeed privileged to have a musician of his calibre in our midst.
Words cannot adequately do justice to the skill and talent of the artists – this had to be heard and experienced.
The audience were on their feet most of the time, giving standing ovations; it was impossible to sit still in one’s seat!
I would like to urge the jazz loving people of the South Coast to not miss another concert produced by Umngqungqo Wabantu.
INSPIRED JAZZ LOVER
(Letter shortened)
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