By Fidelis Manyange

MOST people, if not all, are familiar with Zimbabwe’s musical galas that celebrate the lives of the country’s heroes and the independence that they subsequently brought.
But there is more to these galas that have been held much to the delight of many.
They have significantly benefitted the musicians that participate.
When we hear about galas the names that quickly come to mind are ‘Mzee Bira’, ‘Umdhala Wethu’, ‘Heroes Splash’ and ‘Independence galas’.
During these galas, we remember the role played by the sons and daughters of the soil during and after the liberation struggle.
In the galas that have been held previously over 20 artistes have taken turns to perform.
The galas have been spread across the country’s ten provinces, bringing the country’s musicians to the people.
The musical galas are arguably the country’s best and preferred musical shows as admission is usually free.
The rich and the poor mingle and dance together in the spirit of togetherness, while upcoming and prominent artistes exchange notes.
Many people that would usually not frequent music shows get an opportunity to see, greet and chat with their favourite artistes.
Not only do they meet musicians, but personalities from both radio and television also.
During galas one gets to see the wide grins on fans’ faces as they take turns to be photographed with their celebrities.
The pictures are treasured for life.
The people who remain at home do not miss out as the galas are beamed live on television.
Galas are a time people get to hear the music that kept the spirit alive during the liberation struggle.
Although now old, choirs that stoked the fires of the liberation struggle regroup to deliver morale boosting music.
It is during galas that we see in action the LMG Choir fronted by the veteran Give Nare belting out songs such as ‘Emoyeni’, ‘Yithilaba’ and ‘Igazi labafowethu’.
Those obsessed with songs like ‘Vanhu Vese vemuAfrica’ know that Dick Chingaira a.k.a ‘Cde Chinx’ never misses a gala.
He is always there energetically belting out the people’s favourite golden oldies reviving the memories of the liberation struggle.
Upcoming artistes including Lincoln Chimombe, Big Tembo Jr and Derrick Majaivana have gotten air under their wings from the galas and have started holding shows around the country.
Both prominent and upcoming musicians have an opportunity to sample their ‘staff’ to large crowds and millions of people around the country.
The galas are a platform for artistes to check if they still appeal to the people.
In some cases, artistes have been booed off the stage, while some leave with the crowd clamouring for more.
Such has been the nature of our galas, giving our artistes confidence and reminding some to shape up.
Galas have put our artistes on a platform they never imagined they would set foot on.
Dancers, vocalists and instrumentalists have used them to seek greener pastures joining bigger and better paymasters.
Some have gone to form their own outfits.
Those who sell national regalia, food and beverages are assured of booming business at galas.
Residents are also happy to dance the night away with their heroes and political leaders sharing problems and successes.
Last year, we had the opportunity to witness performances by foreign artistes like Black Uhuru who graced the Independence Gala at the National Sports Stadium.
Musical galas must be a permanent fixture on our arts calendar.
They are more than a celebration of our heroes and achievements.
After all, they breathe life into the country’s arts industry.