Soul of Africa Lunch Hour Concert

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The School of Arts (Music) presented an exciting lunch hour concert featuring African Music and Dance (AMD) students performing on stage at the Howard College theatre under the theme: “Soul of Africa”.

The concert was an end of semester showcase of all the African Music Ensembles in the UKZN African Music and Dance Programme.

This semester the ensemble teachers, Ms Nozuko Nguqu, Mr José Chemane and Mr Lindani Phumlomo, featured various styles of dance which audiences enjoyed. Styles included SHIKISHA which is a modern traditional dance fusing Zulu and contemporary dance movements and INDLAMU and SHIYAMENI which depict the celebration of Zulu warriors during the Anglo-Boer war.

Said Nguqu: ‘This semester’s show was out of this world. AMD has grown in numbers which makes us more powerful on stage. The variety in our repertoire was also a highlight. When I thought of AMD’s 3 pieces, I had the other teachers in mind so I made sure I incorporated the IsimPondo style to spice it up as the other teachers are originally Zulu, and Chopi (Mozambique).’

Phumlomo, who ensured first year students perfected their performances, said, ‘This was my first time working with them and we managed to work together effortlessly, coming up with the concept, fine-tuning their movements to execute them better and building on their stage presence.’

He was both proud and happy that the first year students were able to conquer their fears and dominate onstage. ‘It’s great seeing them let go and be all that they can be. As a teacher, it’s a special moment seeing them grow.’

The AMD ensemble and teachers were grateful to their Lecturer Dr Patricia Opondo for her support and encouragement. ‘She gave me the opportunity to inspire students at such a critical fundamental stage. It’s an honour,’ said Phumlomo.

The concert proved to be a huge success with audience members saying they were keen to attend the next show in the second semester.

Melissa Mungroo