Insingizi Captures the Hearts of Winnipeggers

February 9, 2006

When you grow up in the warmth and heat of Africa, move to the more temperate climes of Vienna, where would you most likely choose to spend a week in December? Insingizi chose to spend a week in Winnipeg (dis)affectionately known to many in Canada as Winterpeg. We think they knew what those of us in Winnipeg know – cold weather leads to a passion for things to speed the winter along and music is very high on that list.

 

They received emails from people elsewhere in Canada complaining that they were not coming to their town. Well Winnipeg knew how good they had it, having Insingizi here for a short while. We also know that they will be back again, and we hope it is soon.

Insingizi played several shows in schools and introduced Canadian kids to the amazing rhythms of their music and to Gumboot dancing. Everywhere they played people were mesmerized by the sounds of their music and storytelling. You only had to watch the faces of the children to experience the impact of their music.

Insingizi joined Madrigaia (www.madrigaia.com) on the stage of the West End Cultural Centre for a brilliant concert on December 20, 2005.

The sold-out audience was swept away by the blend of male and female voices and gave them a standing ovation. CBC was on hand to record the concert so that more people can enjoy the music again on the radio.

Their week here included much more, and they left with the promise to return and bless us once again with the joy and power of their music. - By Pam Friesen