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In a time when music charts are ruled by electronic rhythms and digitally enhanced voices, a young individual is confidently going against the current — equipped not with digital tools, but with a saxophone and a strong passion for jazz.

Only 25 years old, Tafadzwanashe Tsepokang Muzhari is gradually establishing himself in Zimbabwe’s entertainment scene, bringing new energy to live jazz shows that many thought were disappearing.

A resident of Bulawayo and a music teacher at Kyle College in Masvingo, Muzhari is reshaping the concept of being a contemporary jazz artist in Zimbabwe.

When he takes the stage, it’s never solely about the music. His compositions convey narratives of feeling, hardship, liberation, and spirit. Every note sways and pulses, reminding listeners of the lasting impact of live performance in an era dominated by digital technology.

“I’ve always been impressed by the depth of the saxophone. I desired an instrument that conveys profoundly — something unique — and the sax achieves just that,” Muzhari said to Life & Style.

He claimed that jazz provided him with creative liberty that no other style could match, enabling him to push musical limits while still connecting with the audience.

In jazz, I can incorporate dissonance, shell chords, modifications, and even chaos, and it still sounds appropriate,” he stated. “That liberty is what continues to motivate me.

Music has always been an integral part of Muzhari’s life. Raised in a family with four brothers—each a musician—creativity was not just supported; it was a daily experience. This background molded him into both a performer and a teacher, roles he now manages with dedication and honor.

The performer honored his family for their constant support and expressed deep gratitude to Kyle College, where he develops young talent and educates students about the richness and structure of music.

They have backed every musical concept I wished to bring to life,” he stated. “This encouragement enables me to develop while assisting others in finding their musical expressions.

Outside of the stage and classroom, Muzhari views himself as involved in a broader purpose of preserving jazz for upcoming generations. His guidance for young musicians is notably straightforward.

It’s not about how you begin, but the happiness you experience when you start playing.

Each performance by Muzhari demonstrates that jazz is anything but outdated — it’s not disappearing, but rather transforming — and that Zimbabwe’s entertainment landscape still accommodates music that is authentic, heartfelt, and profoundly human.