Sabelo Nyoni Leads Groundbreaking Afro-Sino Musical Fusion at Reps Theatre, Harare

Harare’s cultural scene is poised for a landmark event as pianist and choral director Sabelo Nyoni spearheads a unique musical collaboration blending African and Chinese traditions. On June 28, 2025, Nyoni will perform two captivating shows at the Theatre Upstairs, Reps Theatre, alongside Chinese Guqin master Belle Qiu and Zimbabwean multi-instrumentalist Anesu Ndoro.

The shows, set for 2pm and 6pm, promise an unprecedented fusion of sounds designed to mesmerise audiences with a seamless blend of African and Asian musical heritage.

Nyoni, who also manages Reps Theatre, describes the event as a vibrant cultural dialogue that pushes the boundaries of genre and geography. “This is your chance to witness a musical encounter that defies borders and genres, right here in Harare,” she said. “Together with Belle and Anesu, we are three musical explorers from different worlds, united by a passion to create something truly original.”

The genesis of this ambitious project, titled Afro-Sino Dreams, began when Nyoni, a seasoned pianist with over four decades of experience, sought to expand her artistic horizons by incorporating traditional African stringed instruments alongside the ancient Chinese Guqin.

“When I wanted to add African instruments to the mix, fate led me to Anesu Ndoro—a gifted instrument builder and multi-instrumentalist who brings Zimbabwe’s rich musical heritage to life,” Nyoni explained. The collaboration was further enriched by Belle Qiu’s mastery of the Guqin, a seven-stringed Chinese zither revered for its 7,000-year history and spiritual significance.

Nyoni’s piano artistry adds a sophisticated Western classical dimension to the mix, while Belle’s Guqin performances will showcase rare pieces dating back thousands of years, offering audiences a window into ancient Chinese musical traditions.

Anesu Ndoro brings a wealth of expertise in Zimbabwean music, playing instruments like the chipendani, chitende, chivandudzo, uhadi, and umakhweyana, as well as the autoharp. His innovative approach revitalises Zimbabwe’s folk sounds and complements Nyoni’s piano and Belle’s Guqin perfectly.

“Afro-Sino Dreams is more than a concert; it’s a cultural dialogue,” Nyoni emphasized. “Expect to hear Guqin’s introspective melodies intertwining with the earthy timbres of African stringed instruments and the expressive voice of the piano. This is music that bridges continents, celebrates diversity, and invites listeners to experience the world through sound.”

The event arrives at a time when Zimbabwe’s Heritage-Based Curriculum is encouraging cultural appreciation and inclusion across schools and colleges, making this fusion of traditions especially meaningful.

Nyoni’s leadership in this collaboration reflects the evolving refinement of traditional music, highlighting how diverse cultural expressions can come together to create innovative and inspiring art.

On June 28, Harare audiences will have the rare opportunity to experience this extraordinary fusion, a testament to Sabelo Nyoni’s vision and commitment to pushing musical boundaries and celebrating cultural heritage.