Japanese teachers in harmonica training

Gweru-Two Japanese teachers were recently in the Midlands Provincial capital to teach Midlands
State University students from the Department of Music Business, Musicology and Technology how
to play the harmonica.
The teachers, Kayo Yoshida and Kayich Hara described the harmonica as a free-reed instrument that
uses air pressure to generate melodious sound.
The harmonica teaching project started in Harare in a partnership with MSU alumnus Edith
Weutonga.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Chairperson of the Department of Music Business,
Musicology and Technology, Dr Claudio Chipendo said the training would go a long way in moulding
students.
“Allow me to extend our profound gratitude to you for taking leadership role in spearheading this
workshop to share wonderful skills that will go a long way in grooming multi-skilled musicians and
strengthening our relations,” Dr Chipendo said.
Musicology students engaged the Japanese teachers and appreciated how harmonica music has
calming effects and can be used to deal with anxiety, stress and depression.
A level 4.1 female student Josephine Mugadza said that the harmonica improves coordination as it
demands proper coordination between hands, mouth and respiratory system.
“To play the harmonica proficiently, we must be able to match our inhales and exhales with the
proper positioning for the notes we intend to produce which takes a surprising level of dexterity to
produce music with the rhythm and timbre we want from the harmonica.
“Working our diaphragms and controlling our breath to play the harmonica gives us a good workout
and helps strengthen our breathing and overall respiratory system,” said Mugadza.
Another student Ellison Chiumburu said the auditory and tactile stimulation make learning
harmonica a definite brain workout, which play a role in emotions and memories.
“Thankfully, these attributes can be refined over time as we improve our discipline and
concentration with the harmonica.
“We will find that these traits carry over to other interests in life and with the belief that amazing
things can happen when we put in the work, have fun, and learn simultaneously,” Chiumburu said.
The Department of Music Business, Musicology and Technology participates in music performances
such as concerts, recitals, road shows, talent shows, graduation ceremonies and other social
gatherings.