MUSICA, a non-profit making annual music showcase organised by the Embassy of Italy in Harare, is set to open under the theme: Move On, this October.
BY LORRAINE MUROMO
The 9th edition of the festival is part of a cultural exchange programme, designed to facilitate stronger relations between Italy and Zimbabwe.
Italian ambassador, Enrico De Agostini told NewsDay that the festival was important for both countries as it presented a platform of cultural exchange, togetherness and economic benefits.
“We as diplomats have to deliver a message and there is no better language than arts and culture what we can simply put across as cultural diplomacy,” De Agostini said.
“Through music and messages of friendship, interaction of businesses and audiences at large we inject positivism into the country. The festival is significant because there is a creation of business opportunities and networking channels.”
According to De Agostini the festival has not been affected by the economic situation which has forced other giants such as Harare International Festival of Arts, who have been forced to downsize performances and change formats.
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The embassy is also working in collaboration with the Harare International Film Festival to produce a video for their theme song Move On.
“No, we have not been affected. In fact we are growing and have decided on doing seminars and workshops to encourage filmmakers and musicians to work together to create sound tracks and music videos.
“We are going to bring together international and Zimbabwean artists to record an original track that will be broadcast outside the country,” De Agostini said.
Musica showcases the very best of local, regional and international arts and culture through innovative styles and artistes who dare to break barriers to create fresh artistic products.
Previously called the Italian Jazz Festival, then October World Music Festival, the event was this year re-branded to Musica in order to capture a broader range of world music and reflect it’s all inclusive focus.
