Cellist Abel Selaocoe and Amsterdam Sinfonietta are both known for their versatility, curiosity and musical freedom. For the first time, they join forces in a programme where early 20th-century French classical music meets African musical traditions.
With unstoppable energy and creativity, the international cello sensation Abel Selaocoe combines virtuoso cello playing, (throat) singing and improvisation. He moves effortlessly between genres and styles, exploring the farthest reaches of the cello’s sound world. Selaocoe makes his debut with Amsterdam Sinfonietta in a programme that highlights both early 20th-century French classical music and African musical traditions.
Debussy’s melancholic and mystical Cello Sonata, in an arrangement for cello and string orchestra, shows the cello in all its facets. The orchestra shines in Ravel’s masterful, swirling tribute to the Viennese waltz, in a new arrangement for string orchestra. In his own compositions—music that breathes the stories of South African life—Selaocoe is joined by his regular musical partner, master percussionist Sidiki Dembélé.