The Chitungwiza Harmony Singers are appealing for financial assistance to see their first–ever “American dream tour come true” in July next year, following their invitation to participate at the International Choral Festival slated for Oakland, US.
The International Choral Festival is an unforgettable week of rehearsals, public performances, friendly competition and cultural exchange programme held annually.This gospel ensemble is the only choir from Zimbabwe selected from among several African groups, to participate at the prestigious event.
The six-day festival which kicks off on July 4-9 next year, will witness top American and international choirs gathered together under the batons of artistic director Don Cary and several other guest conductors.Together with over 10 groups worldwide they will embark on a voyage of musical discovery.
Composed of 50 members, the gospel outfit requires $200 000 for air fares and accommodation fees to enable them attend the international fora.
In an interview with NewsDay, Chitungwiza Harmony Singers director Peter Thole said this was the first–ever opportunity they have had as a group to represent the country and/or tour.
“This is one of the most rare opportunities that we have been presented with considering that we are a gospel ensemble, this doesn’t usually happen.
“This festival also offers a rare opportunity for us to build bridges and learn the cultures of other people. We are sincerely appealing for help from all those who can help including the corporate world,” Thole said.
So far, Old Mutual is one of the organisations that have promised to assist the gospel ensemble. The group was established in 1994 with only 16 members, but it has over the years grown in numbers to become one of the most popular choral groups in the country.
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Just two years after its formation, the group went on to win three South African standard category awards during an annual choral competition.
To date the group has two albums to their name titled Mawando released in 1998 and Chumaela Vhangeri in 2000.
Thole added they would release another album before the end of this year ahead of their impending US tour.
“We are definitely releasing another album before the end of this year and this will help us market our music and group better ahead of our tour,” Thole added.
