THE arts fraternity has lost one of its shining stars.
Condolences are pouring in for legendary musician, instrumentalist and actress Bavikile ‘MaBhengu’ Ngema who died on Sunday night.
She died at Mbongolwane Hospital after a long illness.
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Mama MaBhengu was known for being a leading virtuoso player of umakhweyana and umqangala, and for dedicating her life to teaching others about the Nguni musical bows.
She was a prolific composer of traditional repertoire who played the instruments with her acute rhythmic, melodic and contrapuntal sensibility which provided a palpable, youthful vibrancy to her original compositions and interpretations of traditional Nguni repertoires.
During her career, the legendary musician shared the stage with some of the best artists in the country, including Gcina Mhlophe, Mbongeni Ngema, Matshitshi Ngema, Bongani Ngcobo, Mthandeni Mbambo, to name a few.She also travelled the globe and performed with the likes of Elton John and others.
Her family is grappling to come to terms with her departure.
“She was loved by many people, not just her family. We are in pain but we pray God will be with us in this time,” said her daughter, Mbali Ngema.
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