One of the first initiatives towards creating a memory of Benjamin Tyamzashe’s work is an exciting and apt musical tribute featuring South African and international luminaries spanning jazz, classical and choral music.
The Celebrating the Music of BJP Tyamzashe 1890 to 1978 tribute is the brainchild of Nomalanga Tyamzashe. It will bring the critical issue of sound preservation to the attention of the public and help towards the preservation of recorded sound.
Two concerts are planned for 4 and 5 March at the Theatre on The Track in Kyalami, north of Johannesburg. The headline artists confirmed for the show are Leonora Zenzelai Helm, Carmen Lundy and Roberto Fonseca.
Affectionately known as B-ka-T, Benjamin Tyamzashe’s composition Zweliyaduduma came at the peak of his music career. The song was presented by a mass choir combination of 3 000 voices, conducted by B-ka-T himself, to entertain the British royal family during a stopover in Umtata while they were visiting South Africa in 1947.
Prince Lengoasa’s conducting skills and big band directorship will meet the challenge when he fuses the talents of classical, jazz and choral musicians accompanied by a star-studded band.
Tickets are now available at Computicket and seats are limited. Members of the media interested in interviews with local and international musicians should contact Rantiti Penane on 084 451 7019 or email
[email protected].