Let the Children Play Zimbabwe Wins Battle of Bands By Mary Doma

Let The Children Play, an ensemble of youths from various backgrounds, left revellers dazzled with a scintillating performance that won them the MUSICA 2014 Battle of the Bands contest at the Italian Club in Harare last weekend.

It would not be wrong to say that they stole the show as they showed their mettle when they performed their own composition of a song entitled "Shout the African Way" in their distinct black outfits.

The contest attracted 12 school bands that were initially given 10 minutes to perform before a jury in the first round followed by a second round where the best five bands that included Prince Edward, Street Jive, Sayi Jazz Band and African Rhythm battled it out for top honours.

Let the Children Play were crowned winners and the runners-up were Prince Edward and Sayi Jazz Band.

"I am very happy we won and our hard work and creativity has paid off," said Gamuchirayi Makore, a vocalist for the winning band.

"We actually rehearsed this song during the 10-minute break while the jury was preparing the results, it's amazing what passion can do," said Pearl Badza another vocalist.

Let The Children Play won a ticket to perform as the opening act on the main stage at the Embassy of Italy during the festival alongside established international and local artistes.

"I am a celebrity already, I feel like we are in Italy already," said Freedom Chinosengwa another band member

The Battle of School Bands comprised of many acts doing various genres from fusion, ethno, folk, jazz ,afro-pop and rock.

Let the Children Play is a 25-member local arts and culture group for talented young Zimbabwean children. The band was formed on April 18 2012 under the leadership of Elisha Herema (music director), Theresa Muteta (music director), Blessed Rukweza (choreographer and dance teacher) and Florence Muteta (voice trainer).