Thabani Gapara

Zimbabwean born and raised, Thabani Gapara is an Auckland based saxophonist who has been performing around the world in various musical projects for the last 16 years. A graduate of the New Zealand School of Music (B Mus Jazz), Thabani has had the pleasure to play as a member in several musical projects in Zimbabwe, South Africa and New Zealand.

His passion for collaboration has seen him work with a plethora of South African artists including Ernie Smith, Natalie Rungan, RJ Benjamin, Neil Gonsalves, Sbu Masheloane, Khaya Mthethwa and super group “Sweet Concept” to mention but a few.

In New Zealand artists including: Batucada Sound Machine, Hipstamatics,Bella Kalolo, Rob Ruha, Lou’ana, Vince Harder, Stan Walker, The Modern Maori Quartet, House of Shem, Three Houses Down and Katchafire to mention but a few.

In the “The Gapara Project” Thabani steps out as band leader presenting his own original music and a mix of some arrangements of music from a variety of his influences that include: Hugh Masekela, Richard Bona, Fela Kuti, Roy Hargrove, kirk Whalum, Moses Molelekwa to mention but a few.

Thabani Gapara - Saxophones
Issac Etimani - Bass
Stallone D’Souza - Keyboards and Piano Nathan James - Guitar
Elijah White - Drums