seckou keita
12 september 2024 / 8pm / la belle angele, edinburgh
100% funded (sold out)
After shows at Glastonbury and Montreux Jazz Festival, Senegalese Kora master Seckou Keita presents a rare stripped-back set in Edinburgh
7pm: doors open
7.30pm: last entry
8pm: seckou keita set
what are noisenights?
noisenights are our vision for the future of classical music: crowdfunded gigs taking world-leading musicians to iconic independent venues.
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At the centre of every noisenight is a one-hour classical set. We platform international soloists and ensembles while also giving opportunities to outstanding new artists. All noisenights take place in gig venues where you get to experience classical music up close.
Live music needs your backing more than ever. Backing a noisenight means getting tickets to hear the world's best performers in grassroots venues and being part of a community working for a positive future for live music. Putting it simply, you giving your backing will make this gig happen and secure you a ticket.
After a noisenight reaches its funding target, we'll e-mail all backers to confirm it and a small amount of extra tickets will be made available. Tickets are released in four stages, which increase in price the closer to the event they're purchased. Book early to get the best price.
Please note that due to the venue's license, this noisenight is strictly 14+ (under 16s must be accompanied by an adult).
the venue:
La Belle Angele, the venue originally formed in the early nineties and which for over a decade stood at the forefront of underground art, music and clubbing culture, was famously destroyed in the Cowgate fire on December 8, 2002.
Over a decade later, the institution that once played host to the likes of Oasis, Radiohead, and The Libertines has been rebuilt, and is once again leading the live music scene in Edinburgh.
the music:
Seckou Keita is a renowned Kora virtuoso who stands as a luminary amongst African traditional musicians. Hailing from Southern Senegal, he has been dubbed as "the Hendrix of the Kora'' due to his innovative approach and exceptional skill.
As a member of a Griot family, Seckou is a hereditary musician and master of his art. He is one of the leaders of the newest generation of traditional African musicians, fusing ancient forms and instruments with those of other cultures.
His solo show is a mesmerising mix of captivating melodies, joyous rhythms, uplifting vocals and contemplative instrumentals. An elegant display of virtuosity, natural connection with the audience and joy that will undoubtedly draw the audience in and take their breath away.
seckou keita:
Seckou Keita, born in 1977 in Senegal, stands as a beacon among the newest generation of African traditional musicians. A virtuoso Kora player, Seckou has masterfully blended seven centuries of tradition with a modern global flair, earning him his position as one of the greatest African musicians of a generation.
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Seckou's musical prowess on the 22-stringed West African harp, the Kora, has captivated audiences worldwide since 1996. Collaborating with renowned artists like Salif Keita, Paul Weller, and Bassekou Kouyate, he has become an influential force, constantly pushing the boundaries of his art.
Hailing from Ziguinchor, Southern Senegal, Seckou's journey began as a childhood prodigy, born into a lineage of griots and kings. Since his arrival in the UK in 1999, Seckou's artistic evolution has been nothing short of epic. Nicknamed "the Hendrix of the Kora," he has revolutionised the instrument's expressive range with his inventive tunings and virtuosity, earning acclaim as "one of the finest exponents of the Kora". Seckou has graced global stages, from WOMAD and Glastonbury to Tokyo Jazz and Montreal Jazz Festivals, captivating audiences with his solo performances, as well as performances with his groundbreaking quintet.
Seckou's debut album ‘Baiyo’, later retitled ‘Mali’, released in 2001, propelled him to new heights as a standout Kora player. Since then, he has consistently exceeded preconceived notions of the Kora's potential. His musical exploration knows no bounds. Seckou has explored a multitude of genres including jazz, pop, Latin, folk, and classical. Notable partnerships include work with Damon Albarn, Catrin Finch, Omar Sosa showcase and the Lost words Collective. With a repertoire of 14 albums, Seckou has garnered accolades, including three Songlines Music Awards and multiple BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, including the 2019 Musician of the Year.
Seckou Keita's musical odyssey is a testament to his ability to transcend cultural borders, creating a sublime poetic journey where music becomes pure emotion. As he continues to push the boundaries, Seckou Keita's legacy is a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and a profound love for music that speaks to the soul.
Rewards: standing tickets to noisenight142 at 8pm on Thursday 12 September 2024 at La Belle Angele, Edinburgh. First-come, first-served for the best views.
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