Zimbabwe College of Music (ZCM) held its ninth graduation ceremony with a record 49 students being awarded degrees and certificates in music.

The college, which is the oldest formal music training institution in the country, capped students with their National Certificate in Music, Bachelor of Music in Ethnomusicologyor Bachelor of Music in Jazz.

Among the graduates was popular gospel musician Charles Charamba who was awarded a Bachelors of Music in Jazz. He also scooped an award for best student in his area of study.

Other prominent graduates were members of the rising afro-fusion group The Luggards who were studying the National Certificate in Music. Sara Chifarai who is part of the group and former Student Representative Council Chairperson also scooped the National Certificate overall best student trophy courtesy of POSB.

“Today is a celebration of all the effort and hard work we invested in our education. To my parents and the parents of every student present here I am grateful for your dedication and support,” said Chifarai.

She also applauds the staff at ZCM for their passion in educating students.

The Zimbabwe College of Music was established in1948 at No. 22 Luck Street in Harare’s Kopje area before relocating in the last 1960sto its current home in the Civic Centre in Rotten Row.

It offers a National Certificate in Music, Bachelors of Music degrees in Ethnomusicology, Jazz, Band Mastership and short courses in various instruments and vocal training.

Some of the institute’s most notable graduates include former HIFA artistic director Manuel Bagorro, soloist Jeanette Micklem, mbira players Dumi Maraire and Ephat Mujuru, teachers Jabulani Moyo, Clayton Ndhlovu, Dumi Ngulube, the late James Chimombe, Isaac Kalumbu, Francis Mukuzunga, Louis Mhlanga, Jethro Shasha, Simangaliso Tutani and researchers Joyce Jenje-Makwenda and Keith Goddard.