The fifth annual Education Africa International Marimba and Steelpan Festival ushers in the month of August this year. On August 1 and 2, the festival comprised of music performance competitions and workshops will take place in Bedfordview, Gauteng.
Simply known as the International Marimba and Steelpan Festival, the weekend will host over a thousand participants from places like Nigeria, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Swaziland and South Africa.
The adjudicators will also give guest performances as well as master classes at a separate fee from the one required at entrance. The experienced musos include French steelpan performer, Andy Narell, American percussionist, Mark Stone, as well as South African veteran vocalist, Sibongile Khumalo.
The Mzansi maven will conduct two master classes that all concentrate on the voice. Also expect 12-year-old drumming sensation, Danno “Drummer Wunderkind” Petersen, to put on a world-class performance. There will also be gumboot and traditional dance workshops. Don’t miss out.
l The International Marimba and Steelpan Festival takes place at St Benedict’s College, Harcus Road in Bedfordview on August 1 and 2. Tickets available at the gate. Weekend passes: www.internationalmarimbafestival.com