Afro-Sino Dreams Concert Delivers Cultural Fusion and Calls for Greater Artistic Support

Afro-Sino Dreams

Presented by Note2etoN | June 28, 2025 | Reps Theatre, Harare

On June 28, 2025, the Theatre Upstairs at Reps Theatre in Harare became a vibrant stage for cultural innovation during Afro-Sino Dreams, a groundbreaking concert presented by Note2etoN. The event brought together musicians from China and Zimbabwe in a powerful celebration of heritage, artistic mastery, and unity through sound. It was more than a performance—it was a testament to cross-cultural collaboration, music education, and shared humanity.

At the heart of the evening was Belle Qiu, a professional Guqin player from Sichuan, China, whose instrument—a seven-string zither—boasts over 7,000 years of history. Belle, also a Chinese medicine doctor and acupuncturist, has deeply immersed herself in Zimbabwean culture since relocating. A student at the Zimbabwe College of Music, she has studied local instruments and dance, grown fond of sadza and vegetarian cuisine, and performed with elegance and emotion that connected continents. Her musical journey includes performances across China and features on China National Television.

Joining her was Zimbabwe’s Anesu Ndoro, a self-taught instrument builder and multi-instrumentalist. Anesu’s mastery of rare African stringed instruments—including the Chipendani, Xitende, Chivandudzo, Uhadi, Umakhweyana, and the Autoharp—made the performance a reverent homage to African musical roots. His arrangements breathe new life into traditional Zimbabwean sounds, positioning him as both a cultural archivist and innovator.

Also performing was the seasoned Sabelo Nyoni, pianist, musicologist, and founder of Note2etoN. With over four decades of musical experience, Sabelo’s leadership has transformed the local music scene. Under her guidance, Note2etoN became the first Zimbabwean adult choir to qualify for the World Choir Games, winning two Silver Medals in 2016. Her collaborative spirit and deep musical insight anchored the ensemble's vision of unity through music.

Cross-Cultural Synergy and Shared Languages

What made Afro-Sino Dreams truly memorable was its authentic spirit of exchange. Belle’s multilingual performances—singing folk songs in Shona, Zulu, Xhosa, and Xichangana—left the audience both surprised and inspired. Her dedication to understanding and sharing in southern African cultures set a powerful example of cultural respect.

In a remarkable reciprocal moment, Anesu and Sabelo then Joined Belle in performing Guqin Duet on a second Guqin, stepping into Belle’s world with equal care and precision. This mutual exchange was not just symbolic—it was deeply humanizing, showcasing the sincerity of their artistic connection.

The highlight of the evening came when Belle and Anesu performed a lively Mbakumba dance which Belle learnt during her studies at the Zimbabwe College of Music. Their joyful movement was complemented by the surprise appearance of drumming master Othnel Mangoma, whose infectious energy turned the concert into a celebration. This unplanned collaboration brought the audience to their feet in a moment that perfectly captured the concert’s ethos.

Education, Storytelling, and Community Connection

The trio didn't just perform—they taught. They gave rich historical context to their instruments, discussing the Guqin’s ancient lineage, the spiritual significance of traditional Zimbabwean instruments, and the piano’s place in both African and Western traditions. These stories deepened the audience’s understanding, transforming each musical piece into an educational experience.

Audience engagement was central throughout the evening. The performers led singalongs of folk songs, inviting the crowd into the music and breaking the fourth wall. The result was a shared space that blurred the line between performer and listener—a celebration of community as much as artistry.