Hanga-Higa talent search winners unveiled

Preparations for the grand finale of Hanga-Higa, a music talent search competition have been on since September— with the organisers working round the clock to hold a successful second season finale. Sixteen contestants convened at Grand Legacy Hotel in Remera, on December 19; to battle for Hanga-Higa’s ultimate title, before a big crowd that turned up for the show to support their favourite contestants. The performances started off at 3pm, with 16 aspiring artistes all impressing as the audience danced and chanted along. The contestants were asked to perform their own compositions. They put up great performances that left the judges with the challenge to pick the winners. Umuryango traditional dance didn’t make it to the list of finalists. The panel of judges comprised four personalities from the local music scene, Alice Umutoni, Khasim Habimana, Livingstone and Alain Mukurarinda. The show was graced by the winners of the first season, who mesmerised the revellers with fantastic performances. After the performances, the judges announced the eight finalists— led by Ines Dorcus Ingabire, who was announced as the overall winner of the Hanga-Higa season two. The 18-year-old student of Nyundo School of Arts performed her song, Ibiganza Bifasha, a song that earned her a rapturous applause from the audience and the judges. Other winners include, Peace Hosiane, Mary France Tharcisse Nzamusanga, Rose Caroline, among others. The series producer, Alain Mukurarinda, congratulates the Hanga-Higa 2015 winner, Ines Dorcus Ingabire. (All photos by Stephen Kalimba) Hanga-Higa gives young people with a dream to become musicians, the confidence to perform in front of big audiences and an opportunity to penetrate into the music industry. The winners will sign a five-year deal with Rwanda Music Production, a music label affiliated to Hanga-Higa.

Entertainment

Hanga-Higa talent search winners unveiled