Re Batswana Music Ensemble returns after successful tour

Spira Tlhankane | Tuesday October 11, 2016 11:26

Re Batswana Ensemble performed in China, Sweden and Germany .PIC: KAGISO ONKATSWITSE

The band made up of Lister Boleseng, Nnunu Ramogotsi, the legendary Ndingo Johwa, Lekofi Sejeso, Leroy Nyoni, Kopano Mantswe, Sakkie Nonong, Andrew Chinganga and Chedza Majwabe performed in China, Sweden and Germany.

In an interview with Showbiz, Re Batswana Music Ensemble producer and founder, Soares Katumbela said they had a successful tour and they are hoping to return next year. “This tour promoted cultural exchange and we benefited a lot,” he said. Katumbela said they had two lucrative music festivals in China where they performed at The Botswana Embassy in China and Public Diplomacy and Culture Exchange Centre.

Katumbela said they went on to perform at a tertiary school in Sweden’s Upplands Väsby Kommun. He added that the BOT50 celebrations in Germany on September 30 were memorable, relevant and diplomatic. He said after leaving a good impression, they have also been invited to come back next year. Going forward, he said next year they plan to start their tour in South Africa before heading off to Europe.

The legendary Ikalanga jazz maestro, Johwa told Showbiz that the cream collaboration of jazz musicians in the form of Re Batswana Ensemble is good. He said Batswana musicians should learn to go out of the country and showcase what they are capable of. “Its hard but it is worth it; there is a lot of exposure,” he said. Johwa said they have challenges like lack of sponsorship but they intend to go back.

Songstress Ramogotsi said she also had a chance to sing Moalihwa song with a Chinese musician and it was a wonderful experience. “It was my first time in China and the reception was amazing; the sound was powerful and the hospitality was exceptional,” she said.

For his part, Re Batswana Music Ensemble director Lister Boleseng who recently released his album entitled Moratiso, said he looked at the bigger picture during the tour. He said as much as every artist has their own songs, when they reach the stage their songs belong to the ensemble. “We did collaboration with artists in China and now our intention is to bring them here and build a relationship,” he said.