"The word classical is not reserved for European arts only. Most cultures produce classical works in all aspects of the arts. So the higher arts of any traditional society can therefore be called classical works. Classical African American music means art-forms like jazz. Africa also has a very ancient traditional of “African classical music” going back to before the royal courts of Sundiata in Ancient Mali, and the Ezana in Ancient Abyssinia and Ancient Egypt." - Alik Shahadah
And, "Looking at the foundation of music as the science of sound and vibration reflecting the sonics of the wider universe was and still is a fundamental principle within all African Cultures. From the Kora music of West African griots and the Mbira music of the shaman figureheads amongst the Shona people in Zimbabwe, to the Nyabingi chants and capoirera in the African Diaspora, all lay testimony to this eternal truth." - Tunde Jegede
When African Classical music engage in conversation with Western Classical music, the outcome is what Seckou Keita, calls Africa Rhapsody. African Rhapsodies, is an epic work for kora and orchestra created in collaboration with Italian composer and musician Davide Mantovani and recorded with BBC Concert Orchestra. The album includes guest appearances from South African star cellist and vocalist Abel Selaocoe, outstanding double bass player Davide Mantovani and Seckou's young brother (also a kora player) Suntou Susso on percussion.
Africa Rhapsody - A majestic work showcasing a whirlwind of virtuosity, but above all a sublime poetic journey where music is pure emotion.
Speaking in other tongue, the Senegalese musician and composer Seckou Keita uses the Kora music instrument to create a conversation with western music. And, if one could listen and examine human relations from that conversation, the story therefore, can benefit the world in understanding different perspectives within the world in which we live. Such a story could dispel negative stereotypes and personal biases about different cultures and music; and could help us recognize and respect “ways of being” that are not necessarily our own.
If the world was an artist, a different world could emerge.
What is your thoughts?
...
