Remember a school hall before the competition began: the choir forming a line, a conductor counting in, the marimba team getting ready? The National Institute of Allied Arts (NIAA) programme for 2026 documents how widespread those moments became.

Its published programme says the 2026 Vocal and Instrumental Eisteddfod received more than 3,000 entries and ran from late February through March. Venues included Prince Edward, Gateway, Harare International School, Hartmann House and schools around Gweru and Marondera.

The competitions featured African choirs, Western vocal ensembles, marimba, jazz bands, orchestras and solo performers. The source describes participation and competitions; it does not identify all 3,000 entries as prizewinners.

The singers, choir teachers, conductors, adjudicators, accompanists, parents and sound teams all helped make the stages possible. OurPride welcomes official programmes and properly attributed school records so their work is remembered.

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