Concert reviews, artist profiles, and everything in between
The complete archive — every write-up from Nairobi's jazz and classical scene, published from 2015 to today.
Jazz; being free, Body and Soul, by Mackinlay Mutsembi
April is Jazz Appreciation Month, and April 30th is International Jazz Day.
Maureen Shelmith
Shamsi Music: The Audition album review
With a spiritual-tinged demeanor, Shamsi Music is currently the youngest jazz band in Kenya.
Maureen Shelmith
In pictures: celebrating our Kenyan jazz cats
As April gets underway, it goes without saying — happy Jazz Appreciation Month to you!
Maureen Shelmith
The April star-studded live show by Nairobi Horns Project
More attention than ever is being devoted to improving the sound of Kenyan jazz.
Maureen Shelmith
Basically bass-ing it; I am Papa
Nowadays, we're accustomed to the mellow tunes of violinists within the Kenyan musical scene.
Maureen Shelmith
Celebrating women in classical music in Kenya
In the classical music world, as in other professional fields, women have made their mark.
Maureen Shelmith
Maad Orchestra: Eddie Grey's maiden event
On the 3rd of March, a deep musical experience unfolded at the Braeburn Theatre.
Maureen Shelmith
Review: Women in Music Forum, February edition
The Goethe Institute was the place to be for an intimate evening of music curated by women.
Maureen Shelmith
ONGEA! 2017: #LetsONGEA!
Looking to move and shake to the best of African music, with a line-up spanning the continent.
Maureen Shelmith
My 'All of June' experience: Ythera Music
Nyummy. Very, very nyummy. June's much anticipated exclusive shows, All of June, was a big hit.
Maureen Shelmith
What you missed: KNYO January Concert
January ended on a good note for most classical fans, as the Kenya National Youth Orchestra performed.
Maureen Shelmith
Levi Wataka: for the love of classical music and rugby
Standing in front of the orchestra, Levi Wataka holds a baton in one hand, and something else entirely in the other.
Maureen Shelmith
Review: Joss Stone Total World Tour in Kenya
There is always that one event that happens in the downpour — this was one of the most memorable.
Maureen Shelmith
Nairobi's funkiest band goes live
If you are an avid music fan, you've definitely heard of Nairobi Horns Project.
Maureen Shelmith
Joss Stone live in Nairobi: soul sensation
Soul lovers are in for a real treat this weekend courtesy of the good people at Bad Mambo.
Maureen Shelmith
Nairobi Orchestra's End of Year Concert, 2016
Nairobi Orchestra kicked off its 2016 end-of-year concert with four performances that celebrate the season.
Maureen Shelmith
Are conductors necessary at an orchestra performance?
They are probably the most admirable people on the orchestra scene, usually standing at the front.
Maureen Shelmith
Bhangra: folk dance and music
During the British Empire, Indians were brought to the East African protectorate to lay the railway.
Maureen Shelmith
The intricate art of Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is a dance art form that has spanned over 2,000 years, originating in Southern India.
Maureen Shelmith
The 9th Annual Nile Gold Jazz and Soul Safari
On the 8th of October 2016, music lovers were treated to a spectacular musical event at the Lugogo.
Maureen Shelmith
Polyrhythmic vibes: why African jazz is original
I am writing this article with an assumption of basic music knowledge — polyrhythms are often misunderstood.
Maureen Shelmith
Song review: Lala, by Nzomo
The cover image of the song reveals Muema Nzomo's artistic side — he is not only a talented musician.
Maureen Shelmith
Nairobi Horns Project: exhilarating Kenyan jazz ensemble
I found out about the Nairobi Horns Project through stalking one of their members.
Maureen Shelmith
Safaricom Jazz Festival 2016/2017 series launch
Every year since the inception of the Safaricom Jazz Festival in 2014, jazz fans have been treated well.
Maureen Shelmith