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Lusaka-based classical ensemble, Kanons, performing at Lowenthal Theatre in Ndola recently. Picture by GETHSEMANE MWIZABI

By GETHSEMANE MWIZABI –

INFLUENCED by classical great of Mozart, the Kanons are defining their own shade of music.
The nine-piece Lusaka-based classical ensemble has big dreams. Led by three talented youths Stanley Musowe, Mubuyaeta Mubuyaeta and Tom Chiponge, the group recently wowed Ndola residents at Lowenthal Theatre.
They were invited to Ndola by local business executive Chisenga Kasololo who leant of them through a sister.
Kanons played Christmas carols and afro jazz like that of South African legend Hugh Masekela.
There is no doubt the ensemble, which performs at high-profile embassy functions, has potential to grow and increase the appetite of classical music in Zambia.
Listening to them perform afro jazz, one would wonder why they are little-known.
In recent memory they performed at the Swedish Embassy.
Through their works, the Kanons have performed in Zimbabwe, Kenya and South Africa.
“We are planning to release our debut album soon. We have written all our songs,” said Musowe, a graceful violinist and pianist.
The group is influence by artistes like Steve Wonder, Nate King Cole, Michael Jackson, Handel, Mozart and George Geshwin.
Formed back in 2007 by three youths, it was first called the Trio and as the year ended, the name changed to Baroque Ensemble.
The first performance was at Cresta Golfview Hotel in Lusaka.
The inspirational performance on that day prompted even the listeners to gain interest and make an investment.
In mid-2008 the name changed from Baroque Ensemble to Kanon with the first performance at Rhapsodies in the same year.
Ultimately, the Kanons are a team of youths to look out for.