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ENGOMA ENTEERA: Classical Music from Uganda

Orchestra 2001
Orchestra 2001 at Cherry Street Pier. Photo by Bill DiCecca.
Orchestra 2001 at Cherry Street Pier. Photo by Bill DiCecca.
Husband and wife team curator Sylvia Nannyonga-Tamusuza and composer Justinian Tamusuza.
Husband and wife team curator Sylvia Nannyonga-Tamusuza and composer Justinian Tamusuza.
Conductor Na'Zir McFadden. Photo by Sarah Smarch.
Conductor Na'Zir McFadden. Photo by Sarah Smarch.

In a cross-continental collaboration with Ugandan composer Justinian Tamusuza, Orchestra 2001 premieres new works that marry Western classical music with Kiganda folk traditions from East Africa. Tamusuza uses techniques such as prepared instruments, microtones, and polyrhythms to give orchestral musicians tools to emulate the qualities of Kiganda music. Tableaus from Ugandan life are depicted in solos, chamber music, and chamber orchestra pieces conducted by Na’Zir McFadden. Dr. Sylvia A. Nannyonga-Tamusuza, associate professor of music and head of the performing arts and film department at Makerere University in Uganda, joins the composer to share insights into East African music during public programs and instrument demonstrations. Open rehearsals and concerts take place at public locations, and Ugandan audiences can tune in live online for some concerts and programming.

Visit the project website.

The total grant amount represents project funding plus an additional 20% in unrestricted general operating support.

Recipient
Orchestra 2001

Orchestra 2001

Orchestra 2001 is dedicated to performing and promoting the music of the 20th and 21st centuries. Nominated for a Grammy Award in 2015, the ensemble has performed at leading concert halls across the US and overseas, including prominent festivals in Salzburg, Moscow, Dubai, Havana, Beijing, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Orchestra 2001 has presented over 85 world premieres and over 100 Philadelphia premieres, and has been recognized by ASCAP and the League of American Orchestras with Awards for Adventurous Programming. 

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