In a celebration of African music, from ancient songs to contemporary fusion, when over 350 voices will fill Hamer Hall on Sunday 30 August with songs, stories, music and dance featuring the Boite Millennium Chorus and a stellar line-up of supporting artists.
The Boite Millennium Chorus has been wowing audiences for the past 18 years and this year will be no different as eight regional choirs perform alongside special guests including Emmy Award winner and musical director of the multi-Grammy Award winners, the Soweto Gospel Choir, Jimmy Mulovhedzi (South Africa) along with Ajak Kwai (Sudan), Bouly Sonko (Senegal), Oumy Sene Sonko (Senegal), Tariro Mavondo, King Bell and the Burundi Drummers Group Of Victoria.
Directed by Lamine Sonko in collaboration with choir director Andrea Khoza, One Africa is an adventurous vocal journey traversing the ancient African traditions of the Griots and the colourful fusion of the contemporary African diaspora bringing a message of unity and connectedness. Lamine Sonnko shares the sung treasures of his family, culture keepers for generations in Senegal.
“Growing up in Senegal and in a family of Griots, I was surrounded by music and dance that’s why I have an obligation to pass on my music and stories to future generations,” says Artistic Director Lamine Sonko. “Following the success of last year’s concert I am excited to be able to share the meaning of my music, with the Melbourne audience once again.”
Each year the Boite Millenium Chorus encourages 250 – 400 singers from across the state to become part of this massive participatory arts project. Ten weeks of rehearsals, at venues around Victoria, culminate in a grand concert, where hundreds of performers raise their voices to celebrate cultural diversity.
More than 2000 audience members will feel the power of 350 voices as they transform Hamer Hall with an exhilarating beat of traditional and contemporary African rhythms. With an energetic line up of African and local artists, the music combines the flavours of afro-classical roots, percussion and afro-soul alongside a myriad of musical and vocal styles from across the continent.
The Melbourne Millennium Chorus was launched by the Boite in 1999 on the eve of the new Millennium, with a vision of bringing together singers and musicians from around the world to welcome in the new era. What was originally created as a one-off event was so popular that it is now a major annual event on the Melbourne musical calendar.
Boite Millenium Chorus – One Africa
Hamer Hall – Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St. Kilda Road, Melbourne
Performance: Sunday 30 August 2015 – 2.30pm
Bookings: 1300 182 183 or online at: www.artscentremelbourne.com.au
For more information, visit: www.boite.com.au for details.
Image: Boite Millenium Chorus (supplied)