The Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble’s UK Tour - Cheltenham - 10.07.14

Inspiring musicians celebrate South African anniversary, in what promises to be one of the feel-good concerts of the year, the talented youngsters of the Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble share the joy of music-making with a programme of classical repertoire, plus traditional South African ‘kwela’ and gospel songs.

The inspirational Soweto String Ensemble sprang up from the Buskaid project, which gives children from impoverished backgrounds in South African townships the opportunity to learn string instruments to the highest possible standard. As part of a UK tour marking the 20th anniversary of democracy in South Africa – and following previous Cheltenham performances in 2004 and 2007 – this extraordinary ensemble showcases a programme that ranges from baroque composers Bach and Rameau through to Karl Jenkins’ Soweto Suite and African Kwela and Gospel music.

Soweto Strings, a film about the project directed by filmmaker Mark Kidel, is also being screened at the Cheltenham  Town Hall on 10 July.  Mark is sure the ensemble will be warmly welcomed in Bristol:

Voted one of the world’s most inspirational groups, the Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble has sprung from a remarkable initiative which for over 15 years has given hundreds of township youngsters the chance to learn a classical instrument and to combat hardship. The ensemble has played in the presence of numerous dignitaries, not least Nelson Mandela and Michelle Obama.