Tribute to Oliver Tambo

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Sell out crowd  Enjoys South African Musical Extravazanza! 
Mzansi Sings, A Tribute to Oliver Tambo

“ Even in bleak moments we were never in doubt regarding the winning of freedom” Oliver Tambo

Bristol hosted the spectacular South African, "Mzansi Sings a tribute to Oliver Tambo" musical, a ‘jazz meets choral extravaganza’ on Sunday 24th June at a sold out Elim @ Bristol City Church, the newly refurbished amphitheatre – seating 600 people.

Mzansi Sings is a tribute to one of the South Africa’s great leaders, Oliver Reginald Tambo who as a member, and later leader of the ANC, played a major role in the growth and development of the movement and its policies.  After three decades in exile, much of it spent living in London, he returned to South Africa in 1991. He died in 1993 just a year before the new democratic Republic of South Africa came into being. 

This was a spectacular celebration of South Africa’s musical heritage. For this production original choral melodies were rearranged and given a contemporary jazz feel by the legendary composer, conductor and bassist Victor Ntoni for an ensemble consisting of a 30 strong choir, an 18 piece big band, a 10 piece string section as well as traditional Xhosa musicians and dancers. 

The ensemble includes some the finest singers and musicians performing in South Africa today.  Vocalists include; Reuben Malgas, Phinda Mtyamatlala, who as well as performing in The Lion King on Broadway has also worked with Hugh Masekela, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and the late Brenda Fassie, Khanyo Maphumulo who began her career at the tender age of 13 when she was cast as the lead in the musical play Sarafina, trumpeters Sydney Mavundla and Fezile  ‘Feya’ Faku and McCoy Mrubata, one of the finest saxophonists working in South Africa today. They are joined by The Soweto Choristers and the African Youth Ensemble.

The Music Lab, based in Johannesburg, is an emerging black owned music production company that seeks to bring stability to the lives of musicians, while promoting African music through artist management and development. The Music Lab’s vision hinges on the idea that artists can only perform at their best as they gain exposure and experience. They are also committed to ensuring the participation of women in all spheres of music. The driving force behind The Music Lab is husband and wife  team of Linda and Victor Ntoni, and Lawrence Matshiza one of the most sought after guitarists on the South African music scene.

Many Community leaders and dignitaries were in attendance at this unique and very special event. Paul Stephenson, local Civil rights campaigner and race relations activist said, “ I very much welcome the South African choir and dancers performing at Elim church, supporting the memory of the great apartheid fighter Oliver Tambo.” 

Proceeds from this event went go to The Yvette Gate Bone Marrow Campaign and we are very grateful for the support.

Click thumbnail on left to download article from Bristol Evening Post (.jpg).

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