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Zimpraise Choir in action

Tafadzwa Zimoyo Arts Reporter
The major highlight was when Mtukudzi took to the stage to sing some of his gospel tunes like “Hear Me Lord’”which drove the whole auditorium into a frenzy.

Award-winning popular interdenominational choir Zimpraise, hosted a successful two-day festival at Harare International Conference Centre over the weekend.

Legendary musician Oliver Mtukudzi was part of the festival that was one of Zimpraise’s live DVD recording events, which has seen the choir releasing a series of DVDs.

The festival was divided into two parts with afternoon sessions dedicated to children who hosted their mini-festival while established musicians had their separate segment.

Musicians who graced the festival include Mudiwa, Pastor G, Marbel Madondo and Flem B among others while pastors and some bishops from other churches were in attendance.

The colourful festival saw the choir’s chief executive officer Joseph Madziyire launching his debut book entitled “Young Boy Lead”, which was being sold for $5 per copy.

The choir sang most of their popular songs and did renditions of some church hymns that excited people from different denominations.

The major highlight was when Mtukudzi took to the stage to sing some of his gospel tunes like “Hear Me Lord” which drove the whole auditorium into a frenzy. People started singing the superstar’s track “Perekedza Mwana” as the musician went off the stage.

Tuku performed for about 20 minutes before the choir had to do more songs.

Madziyire later took to the stage to announce a surprise for one of his members, Wellington Kwenda. He revealed that he had bought Kwenda a car valued at $9 000.

“I want to honour someone who has been with us since day one. He has a passion for music and I am so humbled by his works. I am giving car keys to Wellington Kwenda, he didn’t know but I want to thank you my brother. Now you can drive your own car,” he said.

Speaking at the sidelines of the event Madziyire said he was happy with the turnout.

“As I always say, it is all about Jesus and I am happy with the turnout and may God bless all those who came. This is a dream come true, launching the book and the festival. This is what the people have been waiting for. We continue to grow each day. This is our first festival as many are used to the live DVD recordings. We promise to do more and improve each time,” he said.