As a Kenyan in the world of composition, part of my musical journey has involved discovering other African classical composers that came before me and who have paved the way for the many others after them.
I compiled a list of some African classical composers ‘you should know’ for Found Sound Nation, the music non-profit where I am currently interning at.
In the article, I highlight artists who are not only influential to what African art looks like today, but also particularly influential to me as an musician myself. Francis Bebey, a pioneer of African electronic music, has inspired me endlessly as I am working with organic experimental electronic sounds more and more. Then, as I explore the mbira in my musical expression, Stella Chiweshe is most certainly a guide. And the Ethiopian pianist Emahoy Tsegue reminds me how freeing the piano, my first love in music, is. Of course, I’m learning about the music-makers of Africa, and such a summated article can never do justice to the incredible breadth and richness of the music that has been developed at home through the centuries. Nevertheless, I loved putting this together and loved being able to share it with you all.
Check out my the article here, and follow the playlist for the jams!
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