Botho University Hall was the stage for an unforgettable musical experience this past Saturday as Symphony in Sound debuted with a powerful showcase of brass, choral, and instrumental music.
The event, organised by Majenyana Brass Band as a fundraiser to purchase musical instruments, brought together local and international talent. While the performances throughout the night were exceptional, it was the South African guest band, Sedibeng Marines, that delivered a once in a lifetime spectacle that left the audience in awe. The night opened with a well coordinated performance by Majenyana Brass Band, whose disciplined formations and harmonious brass arrangements immediately set a high standard. The band, which has built a strong reputation in Botswana’s brass music scene delivered a performance that was both powerful and precise. Their melodies, built on deep, resonant brass sounds and sharp percussion, filled the hall, earning cheers and applause from the audience. It was a fitting introduction to a night that promised top-tier musical entertainment. However, it was Sedibeng Marines who turned Symphony in Sound into a historic moment. Invited from South Africa as special guests, the band delivered a performance that can only be described as impossible to replicate. From the first note, they commanded the stage with an energy and cohesion that stunned the audience.
Their level of precision, the way their instruments blended seamlessly, and the intensity of their delivery created an atmosphere that could not be recreated. What made Sedibeng Marines performance stand out was their ability to merge technical brilliance with showmanship. Their transitions between pieces were flawless, and their control over their instruments was something beyond ordinary. The audience was visibly captivated some stood in disbelief, while others clapped endlessly, caught up in the magnitude of what they were witnessing. The band’s power and presence transformed the concert into something more than just a fundraiser, it became an event that will be talked about for years to come. The supporting acts also brought variety to the night. Dineo tsa Tumelo Gospel Choir delivered a deeply moving performance, their harmonies flowing effortlessly through the venue. The choir’s ability to shift the mood from excitement to introspection was evident, as some audience members closed their eyes and swayed gently to the music.
Saxophonist Pako Derrick added another dimension to the evening, his instrument offering a contrast to the powerful brass sections. His solos were smooth and expressive, drawing cheers from the audience. The saxophone’s warm and soulful sound provided a refreshing break between the high energy brass performances, showing the versatility of live instrumental music. Throughout the event, the audience remained engaged, responding enthusiastically to each act. Many captured the performances on their phones, eager to preserve a piece of the night’s magic. The diversity of musical styles kept the concert dynamic, ensuring that every performance brought something unique to the stage. Beyond the entertainment, Symphony in Sound carried a deeper purpose. Majenyana Brass Band organised the event as a fundraising effort to purchase much-needed instruments, a fact that resonated with many in attendance.
The turnout and support demonstrated that there is a strong appreciation for brass and live instrumental music in Botswana, as well as a willingness to contribute to its growth. As the night came to an end, one sentiment was clear Sedibeng Marines had set a benchmark that might never be reached again. Their performance was not just a musical act but an experience, a moment in time that will remain unmatched. The audience left the venue with the realization that they had witnessed something extraordinary, something that could never be replicated. With its successful debut, Symphony in Sound has not only introduced a new platform for brass and choral music but also set a precedent for future musical events in Botswana. The question now is whether such a moment can ever be recreated or if what Sedibeng Marines did will remain a once-in-a-lifetime event.