Angélique Kidjo & Metropole Orkest: African Symphony

African Symphony

For African Symphony, Kidjo collaborated with award-winning American bassist, composer, and arranger Derrick Hodge, known for his work with Robert Glasper, Common, and Jill Scott. Together, they created a symphonic setting in which the energy, rhythms, and stories of African music come fully into their own. The program honors the great voices of the continent, with music by Miriam Makeba, Fela Kuti, and Youssou N'Dour, among others, alongside contemporary artists such as Rema and Burna Boy. Kidjo's own songs are also part of the concert—music that has itself been a major source of inspiration for a new generation of African artists. In African Symphony, the past, present, and future of African music thus come together.

Metropole Orchestra

The magnificent Metropole Orchestra is a regular at the Concertgebouw. The orchestra plays jazz, pop, soul, film music, and much more. They have shared the stage with greats such as Ella Fitzgerald, Brian Eno, and Bono. They have played at Pinkpop and Lowlands, and with contemporary talents like Gregory Porter and Jacob Collier. Tonight, the orchestra's symphonic sound blends with the rich tradition of African music, starring the impressive singer Angélique Kidjo.