SADC >> Zanzibar

Sauti za Busara is East Africa’s biggest music festival, bringing people together to celebrate African music under African skies. The 17th edition will take place in Stone Town, Zanzibar from 13th – 16th February 2020 with more than 400 musicians taking part. Over the past few years we have supported the participation of musicians from our Swiss and Regional programmes in this important musical gathering. This year we’re pleased to be supporting three projects through the ANT Mobility Fund.

MANNYOK

Hailing from the Mauritian island of Rodrigues, Mannyok’s twirling sound is rooted in local traditions with original compositions and reinterpretations of local standards. Rhythmic and energetic, the ensemble is composed of five musicians from a variety of backgrounds offering diverse influences to the music mix. Twin brothers Christian and Christophe Casimir, Sydney Alfred, Christel Emilien and Vallen Pierre-Louis play an array of instruments including rhythm and bass guitars, accordion, banjo, mandolin, n’goni, drums, conga, ‘balié koko’, ‘tok tok’, ‘kes mannyok’, ‘zing zing’ and percussion instruments.

SIBUSISO ‘MASH’ MASHILOANE

Sibusiso ‘Mash’ Mashiloane is a prolific South African artist who has played extensively on the South African circuit, in Mozambique, USA and beyond. His performances are inspired by funk, hiphop, gospel and traditional music from South Africa, attracting jazz aficionados as well as music fans of all genres. He is currently studying towards his PhD focusing on the concept of home through the lens of South African Jazz. Sibusiso has released three albums in as many years:  Amanz’ Olwandle (2016), Rotha, A Tribute to Mama (2017) and Closer to Home (2018). His most recent album was nominated for Best Jazz Album in the South African Music Awards 2019. Closer to Home is infused with the musical dialects and characteristics of the Ndebele, Pedi, Swazi and Zulu communities that Sibusiso has collaborated and shared with.

Movers & Shakers workshop

Jess White of Akum Agency will host an information and training session for East African musicians and emerging managers on the basics of artist management, EPK tips, digital distribution, how to approach festivals and promoters, and music trade events.