“Exhilarating brilliance and kaleidoscopic variety”
Michael Church, The Independent

Our Mission

Celebrating African Classical Music

The African Concert Series showcases the works of both historical and contemporary Black classical composers from Africa and the diaspora, preserving traditional African musical heritage.

The series highlights the continent’s diverse and rich musical traditions and provides a platform for African musicians to share their art with a global audience.

The African Concert Series is a place that inspires the younger generation to explore their heritage; a place that shapes the way we see classical music.

Our History

In 2019 the award winning British-Nigerian pianist Rebeca Omordia launched the world’s first ever African Concert Series in London, featuring ten monthly concerts at the October Gallery and the Africa Centre. The series was given recognition in 2022 by joining Wigmore Hall’s Family of Partners and the 2022/23 season saw The African Concert Series make Wigmore Hall its London home.

The series highlights the evolution and enduring relevance of African music, by presenting a blend of traditional sounds, like the West African Griot tradition that highlights centuries-old traditions and cultural practices, with contemporary influences, such as African art music, a blend of Western classical music and African traditional practices.

“Bringing African classical music to the Western audience was right from the start an endeavour meant to unravel the cultural diversity of the African continent, reflected in its music, and to create a platform for the African classical music to be performed”. Rebeca Omordia

“African Art Music makes a comeback” BBC World Service

EKELE: Piano Music by African Composers, Rebeca Omordia

Rebeca Omordia plays Piano Sonata no. 2 by Ayo Bankole (Nigeria)

Bridging traditional and contemporary sounds

Promoting cross-cultural connections: The concerts often feature collaborations between African musicians and Western ensembles, fostering musical exchange and uniting different cultures.

Interactive Educational Concerts

Family and Schools Concerts represent cross-cultural education, inspiring a younger generation; a place where people of all ages can learn about and engage with African cultures and their musical expressions.

Discover The African Concert Series at Wigmore Hall

Patron, Professor Emeritus Julian Lloyd Webber

“I am delighted to become a Patron of the wonderful African Concert Series. It’s a great initiative, which deserves to go from strength to strength and I look forward to hearing more fantastic music and performances.”

Julian Lloyd Webber, December 2020

Read here Julian’s article in The Guardian about the African Concert Series.

The African Concert Series gratefully acknowledges the support of Arts Council England, Wigmore Hall, The Africa Centre London, Colourful Radio and Fourchiefs Media Productions.