German opera singer coming to Malawi
German opera singer Gloria Rehm is set to perform at Bingu International Convention Centre (Bicc) on July 28.
She will share the stage with Music Crossroads Academy (MCA) Model Choir and fast rising violinist, Lucent Shaba. Rehm, who is among the global stars in opera singing, comes to Malawi courtesy of a collaboration between MCA and Qoncept Creative. The two are championing an exchange programme of skills and cultures.
However, opera music, a form of theatre in which music has a leading role and the parts are taken by the singers, is not popular in Malawi. Rehm in an interview from Germany said she is thrilled by the development and could not hide her enthusiasm to perform in Malawi.
“Yes, I hear there has not been much classical singing presented in Malawi before. Thus, I have to convince, charm and move the public with little preset collection to the music I will be singing. This is a completely new and exciting challenge for me and I hope I will be able to communicate within the power of the universal language of music and arts,” she said.
Rehm said although opera music is not common in Malawi, there are reasons for one to attend her show.
“The human voice is an incredible and divine instrument. It can strip our souls bare naked. The concert will be classy, rare and interesting. My goal is to fascinate the people and touch their hearts,” said the singer.
She challenged that her show will make the patrons spend hours choosing the right dresses and getting their hair and make-up done before the concert.
“The rest will be a surprise for all of us and it will be unforgettable evening,” Rehm said optimistically.
While agreeing that classical singing is not popular in Malawi, Qoncept Creative director Qabaniso Malewezi said opera music has a following.
“It’s not just about her performance, but also an exchange programme of skills and cultures. She will collaborate with MCA as well as Shaba. It’s highly ambitious to hold the event at Bicc, but for us it’s an opportunity to host a rare event,” he said.
According to Malewezi, the inspiration behind the show is to try new things and exchange skills.
“During her stay, Rehm will hold workshops and speak at events in a build-up to the concert. The model choir will not only support Gloria, but also collaborate on one or two compositions. There will also be a trio by Luckson Chazama, Marlene Chakwera Chimombo and Gladson Msendera who will showcase their classical vocal capabilities at the academy,” he said.
Among the hits to look out for during her performance is Glitter and Be Gay which has a combination of singing and acting and thrilling is how she weaves her voice across. n
