Daughters Band get resounding reception
Malawi’s first ever all female band, the Daughters Band wowed patrons with their expertise not only on singing but handling of instruments.
The band is an initiative of Music Crossroads Malawi to encourage female participation in the music industry in Malawi.
The group of youthful female artists was finally launched in Lilongwe at Madsoc Theatre on Friday in Lilongwe.
The Daughters Band comprises Kester Kunje on drums, Prisca Mkaliainga on keyboard, lead guitarist Cynthia Phiri, bassist Phalyce Kumdana, lead vocalist Felistas Phiri and backing vocalist Chrissy Kaunde.
During the launch, the group impressed patrons with their stage management.
The sound was perfect, driving some patrons to wonder if it was a professional band performing.
“The launch was good and the response was overwhelming. We are happy with the support we have received from different organisations. Our message to everybody is involve us in all your plans for we are here to stay,” said band member Cynthia Phiri after the launch.
Music Crossroads director Matthews Mfune said the group has started on a good note and has shown great potential.
“I am extremely happy that our dream has come true. Malawi now has an all-female band. These are girls who literally knew nothing about music when they joined. Our focus now is to have them perform at festivals in the country. So far, they have been booked for the 2014 Blantyre Arts Festival.
“We will also line up shows at decent places, conducive for a young girl to perform, where talent will be recognised and appreciated.
“Music Crossroads has managed to put these female artists together and play their own music as a band. They are not just singers but instrumentalists which is rare,” he said.
Daughters Band has, among other places, performed at the City of Stars Festival, UN International Day, at Music Crossroads Centre in Area 23 during US jazz maestro Earl Klugh’s visit to the centre and at the 2013 IWAM Bazaar at Bishop Mackenzie International Schools.
