Congolese-born guitarist Niwel Tsumbu grew up with the hip-swinging Soukous music from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Strongly influenced by Paco de Lucia, Luambo Makiadi and Joe Pass, Tsumbu has emerged as an engaging and innovative guitarist, composer and singer who has gained admirers around the world, blending Congolese rumba and soukous with jazz, classical and flamenco into something entirely his own. He won a Grammy for his role as lead guitarist on the 2022 Best Folk Album, They're Calling Me Home by Rhiannon Giddens and Francesco Turrisi, and has collaborated with artists including Sinéad O'Connor, Baaba Maal, Nigel Kennedy and the Silk Road Ensemble.
This concert is held in support of Musicians Without Borders, whose Kivu Youth Music programme brings music workshops to children and young people affected by the ongoing conflict in North Kivu, DR Congo. The program delivers weekly workshops for children living in orphanages, creating safety and joy despite the ongoing conflict. Proceeds from tonight's concert go directly toward continuing this work.
An intimate evening of virtuoso guitar — and a chance to support young people rebuilding a sense of normal life through music.
