Call for applications: Master class with Tuku and Eric Wainaina in Tanzania

The day-long workshop seeks to enable Tanzanian musicians to learn from established artists in the African music industry. It aims to enlighten participants on working on internationally and finding new markets, setting career goals and building networks, among other topics.

Oliver Mtukudzi is arguably the most powerful creative force to emerge from Zimbabwe in the last three decades. Carefully balancing compelling rhythms and accessible melodies with insightful lyrics, 'Tuku' has built a vast body of work that is politically and socially relevant yet entertaining and accessible to a worldwide audience. Throughout a career that spans more than 45 recordings and performances in every corner of the globe, Tuku has remained committed to the live music scene of his homeland, where he and his band The Black Spirits continue to play to enthusiastic audiences in even the most remote regions.

Eric Wainaina's music is characterized by a blend of Kenyan Benga, soukouss-inspired guitar lines, pop harmonies and traditional instrumentation. His breakthrough hits 'Daima' and 'Nchi Ya Kitu Kidogo' became anthems sung across the country, both of them powerful indictments of authoritarian and ethnically divisive Kenyan governments.

The upcoming workshop is part of the East Africa Vibes Concert (EAVC), taking place at Nafasi Art Space in Dar the following day on Saturday 6 August, where Tuku and Wainaina will perform alongside local stars Jemimah Sanyu, Cocodo Band, Zuhura Seng’enge, Ze Spirits Band and Slim Emcee. The annual event has become a highlight on the East African cultural calendar. Hosted by Culture and Development East Africa (CDEA), it aims to promote emerging musicians, poetry and spoken-word artists, as well as expand the market for 'conscious' artists in East Africa. The 2016 edition of the concert is themed 'Vuka Boda' and will focus on promoting artists' mobility within East Africa to promote social cohesion among its people.

How to apply

Professional artists seeking to develop their skills in the music industry are encouraged to send a motivation letter expressing their interest in the workshop. The number of selected participants will be limited to between 15 and 20.

Applicants have until Friday 22 July to send their applications via email to secretariat@cdea.or.tz.

For more information about the workshop and concert visit the EAVC website or Facebook page.