Article: Pianos of Kinshasa 2023: a unique musical celebration of its kind
The city of Kinshasa was recently the scene of an exceptional musical event, the Pianos de Kinshasa festival. In its third edition, this event was once again the meeting place for music enthusiasts, talented pianists and culture lovers.
Organized from October 1 to 7, this festival highlights the piano instrument in all its forms. Artists from all over the world, from Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, France, Belgium as well as Congolese pianists, participated in this event. The Kinshasa public responded, with an energy and liveliness that surprised the organizers.
Beyond being a simple music festival, Pianos de Kinshasa stands out for its originality and its initiatives. One of the most remarkable efforts is the creation of a Congolese piano. Faced with the difficulty of accessing this instrument due to its high cost, artists undertook to make a piano from objects recovered locally. Although the final result is not yet a full-fledged Congolese piano, this reflection on the use of local materials underlines the desire to make music accessible to all.
The festival also received a valuable donation of pianos from the Swiss authorities. These instruments make it possible to preserve and promote the practice of piano in Kinshasa, and to promote this art in the Congolese city.
In addition to the musical performances, the festival was also an opportunity for workshops and exchanges between artists and Kinshasa youth. German pianist Hanni Liang led workshops with young slam artists from Kinshasa, providing a platform of expression for young people’s voices.
The artistic director of the festival, David Shongo, expressed his vision of Pianos de Kinshasa: that of an event which goes beyond the simple invitation of renowned artists, but which aims to create moments of exchange and sharing , while being a reflection of the realities of Congolese society.
The Kinshasa Pianos festival has become an unmissable event in the cultural landscape of the DRC. It offers a unique musical experience and showcases the talent of local and international artists. In a country marked by socio-economic challenges, this event is a fantastic way to celebrate creativity and promote music as a vector of social cohesion.
An appointment has been made for the 2024 edition, which already promises to be even richer in emotions and musical discoveries. Pianos de Kinshasa is part of a long-term approach and aims to strengthen the Congolese musical scene by highlighting talents and promoting cultural exchanges.
In conclusion, Pianos de Kinshasa is much more than just a music festival. It is an event that transcends borders and allows you to explore the musical wealth of the DRC and the whole world. Through exciting performances, innovative initiatives and moments of sharing, this festival contributes to the cultural development of Kinshasa and its inhabitants. A true celebration of music that continues to leave its mark and inspire music lovers from all backgrounds.