23 Jun 2014

Music lovers in Gaborone braved the chilly weather on June 21, just to be present for the annual Fete de la Musique festival at the BotswanaCraft.

The festival started late afternoon with few revelers, but as time went on, the now extended BotswanaCraft place was filled to capacity. In a jolly mood, the crowd was treated to a variety of music genres, dance and poetry.

The worldwide music festival, in its 12th edition in Botswana, saw more than 30 local musicians of different genres including DJs and Dance groups.

Local amazing talent proved itself when Casper Albert took to the stage with his Maskandi, a kind of Zulu folk music. Casper, one of the most talented Botswana artists surprised many at Fete de la Musique with his song Uphondo Lwam.

However, the highlight of the concert was when the popular Sibongile Kgaile performed. The artist is known for his solo four string guitar performance, but this time around he had a full band which made his music a favorite of the night.

Even with a band, he still stood out with the lead guitar with his playing style comprising techniques such as slapping and tapping with both the left and the right hand.

Many artists also did not disappoint, such as zeus, Samantha Mogwe, Bollywood Girls and Muanga K, among others. Fete de la Musique has gone beyond just a music festival; it is now about socialising and people going out with their families, friends and couple, among others.

The festival catered for all ages as it started during the day to provide for children while older people also had enough of their entertainment time as the international music festival went on until midnight.

The music concert was also not just entertainment for the audience, but it was also a platform for new and upcoming artists to get exposure.

The Alliance Française of Gaborone in partnership with Orange Botswana, European Union, Ministry of Finance and Development Planning made the event possible.

Fête de la Musique is an annual international music event initiated in France since 1982. The event is celebrated worldwide during the month of June while musicians of different background and genres perform live in several designated areas for free. ENDS