Classical and Jazz: Preview - Blaze festival at Barbican
Published: 16 June, 2011
by SEBASTIAN TAYLOR
LEGENDARY South African trumpeter Hugh Masekela is leading a two-day tribute to his late wife singer Miriam Makeba next month as part of the annual Blaze festival of music from around the world.
The concert at the Hackney Empire on July 10/11 is providing the great horn player to present the new generation of South Africa’s singers and musicians.
Performing alongside Masekela and his dynamic band will be Vusi Mahlasela noted for his powerful voice and optimistic lyrics; jazz/ gospel singer Thandiswa hailed as the new Miriam Makeba; and soul singer Lira.
The Blaze festival gets under way at the Barbican this Sunday with the eagerly awaited return of acoustic guitarist Ryan Adams.
Over the following five weeks will be an eclectic mix of shows and artists from gypsy brass bands to and everything in between.
Although hosted by the Barbican, the festival takes place at other venues including Canary Wharf, Gillett Squae, Wilton’s Music Hall and Rich Mix as well as the Hackney Empire.