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Sipepisiwe Moyo, [email protected]

As February unfolds, love is set to take centre stage across the globe, with Valentine’s Day on February 14 bringing romantic celebrations. Traditionally, the day is marked by exchanging gifts such as flowers, chocolates, lingerie, and teddy bears, while some go the extra mile with extravagant gestures like gifting cars and houses.

In Bulawayo, residents have shared mixed views on the significance of Valentine’s Day, with many expressing that love should be celebrated daily, making February 14 just another ordinary day.

Interestingly, in recent years, romantic celebrations have increasingly featured live saxophone performances. In the southern region of Zimbabwe, Vuyi Sax has become the go-to performer for such events, while in the northern region, Denilson Musekiwa takes the spotlight. These musicians are often hired for surprise performances, appearing at workplaces, restaurants, or even on the streets to serenade unsuspecting loved ones.

Valentine’s Day preparations at one of Bulawayo’s shops yesterday

Bulawayo resident Wilson Chipaza shared his enthusiasm for Valentine’s Day surprises, stating that receiving an unexpected saxophone performance from his partner would be a meaningful gesture.

“I do appreciate the Valentine’s theme, especially when I get a surprise from my woman. Sending a saxophonist to serenade me would be amazing. If she can do that for me, then I’ll shower her with love all night.

“This gesture also assures me that I’m the only man in her life, given our country’s economic situation where such gestures are not affordable for everyone,” he said.

Similarly, Esther Dube expressed her desire to experience a romantic saxophone surprise, though she lamented that her partner is not receptive to the idea.

“I always envy other women who get surprises like these. Who wouldn’t love being caught off guard by a saxophonist playing their favourite song? That tall, dark guy playing beautiful music would make my day! But sadly, my man doesn’t like the idea. I’ve hinted at it several times, but he just doesn’t get it,” she said.

However, not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for grand romantic gestures. A local engineer, Kingstone Makaure, who is based in Cuba, believes love should be a private affair rather than a public spectacle.

“I don’t see the need for such performances. Why invite unnecessary attention to my marriage? I’m content with a simple kiss from my wife in the kitchen – it’s enough for me. We celebrate love daily; we don’t need a marked date for it.

“In our African culture, love is private. That’s why you don’t see couples holding hands on the streets – it’s just not part of our values. Let’s stick to our traditions and leave Western displays of affection to them,” he said.

Car dealer Shepherd Shumba echoed similar sentiments, calling saxophone surprises a waste of money.

“I don’t like unnecessary attention. A public display like that could make me trend and even bring enemies into my marriage. However, I do love flowers, though my wife doesn’t know that.”
Interestingly, Shumba said: “What I really want is for women to change the gifts they give us. Every year, we get the same boxer shorts, vests, and socks. Why not surprise us with something bigger, like a car or a house? Even taking me and my friends out for drinks on my birthday would be great.”

Saxophonist Vuyi Sax, who pioneered the “walk-in saxophone surprises” in 2020, noted that what started as a Valentine’s Day trend has now become an everyday occurrence.

“People have embraced this unique art form. A special day no longer passes without someone booking a saxophonist to deliver a heartfelt performance. Previously, the saxophone was mostly associated with live concerts, but now it’s a central part of intimate celebrations,” he said.

Vuyi Sax

He added that women tend to be more expressive when receiving saxophone surprises, while men take time to process the moment before fully appreciating it.

“Women don’t hold back their emotions; they show pure joy when surprised. Men, on the other hand, tend to overthink before reacting. However, appreciation is balanced because men are usually the ones hiring me for their wives,” he explained.
Due to the high demand for his services, Vuyi Sax revealed that he will not be offering promotions this year.

“My schedule for Bulawayo and surrounding areas is already fully booked. The demand is so high that I’ll maintain my normal rates without special Valentine’s Day discounts,” he said.
Earlier this week, Harare-based saxophonist Musekiwa, renowned for creating pressure among couples with the high-end gifts he delivers while performing on behalf of his clients, announced that he was still accepting bookings for Valentine’s Day.

“Let the countdown begin… Your boyfriend lied to you, I’m still taking Valentine’s bookings! February 14 is gonna be fun,” he posted on his Facebook page.

Vuyi the Saxophonist on Valentine’s preparations.

As February 14 approaches, it is clear that while some embrace grand romantic gestures, others prefer to celebrate love in their own quiet ways. Whether through saxophone performances, flowers, or simple acts of affection, love remains a deeply personal and diverse experience for all.

Meanwhile, the city is awash with red as boutiques and pharmacies showcase Valentine’s Day gifts such as mugs, teddy bears, chocolates, and cards. Numerous events have been arranged at hotels, restaurants, and lodges, with many anticipating a high turnout.

Another regular standout on Valentine’s Day, luxury event designer Tendai Kevin Zhou, renowned for delivering exquisite, high-end bouquets of Luxe Flora flowers on behalf of clients to ladies, has also hinted that something special is brewing for the day to make it even more memorable.

The day is always exciting, as couples eagerly anticipate special treats from their loved ones, and now we are looking forward to next week Friday!