South African musician and visual artist, Nkwana Harry Moyaga, steps up to the 10 questions mark this week.
ARTIST NAME: Nkwana Harry Moyaga
ROLE: Composer, Arranger and Bandleader
SHOWCASE PERFORMANCE: The Harry Moyaga Band
1. Where do you find inspiration for your work?
From
the indigenous rhythms, which existed long before Township music was
born. I believe that the indigenous rhythms were never before played
with more than three chords changes which are 1. 4. 5. For example most
of Township Jazz, Township Music is based on 1. 4. 5. rhythms and
American Blues rhythm which also had great influence on Township Jazz.
2. What has been your most memorable performance?
My
most memorable performance was the 2002 Coin Street Festival, when I
performed my compositions with MY South African Big Band.
3. Where in the world would you most like to perform... and why?
Anywhere in the world.
4. Who/what has been the greatest influence on your creative output?
The uniqueness of our melodies with lyrics that tell tales, that carry the timeless whispers from the naval of forever.
5. What has been the highlight of your career so far?
When I shared a stage with the likes of Hugh Masekela, and Abdula Ibrahim on Chris Hani..s memorial day.
6. Who would you most like to work with...and why?
Jim Parris because he is a great musician, manager and he is willing to learn.
7. What is the best job you have ever had?
I
am also a painter and a sculptor, and the best job I ever had was a
commission in 1995 by South African Breweries to make a bronze bust of
President Nelson Mandela.
8. Where do you see yourself/your company in 5 years?
Spreading the Southern African rhythms throughout Britain, Europe and possibly America.
9. What makes you happiest about performing?
To
me the Performance is a vehicle that takes me forward into the future,
backwards into the past and sideways into the present after dancing
with the Ghosts of the past and singing with the spirits of tomorrow.
10. What concerns you most about the state of the Performing Arts Sector in the UK?
Extinction of great performances.