Beyond Words with Zii Nzira and Sylent Nqo

05/23/24 • 59 min

The latest episode of our Jazz Talks podcast features artist and curator Zii Nzira with multi-award-winning guitarist, composer, singer, songwriter and bandleader Sylent Nqo. The two discuss the historical and cultural influences that have shaped jazz and contemporary music, finishing with a beautiful demonstration of Sylent's practice—and the healing power of music.

This episode continues our Beyond Words series in collaboration with Multicultural Arts Victoria, recorded at The Channel and supported by Arts Centre Melbourne as part of the 2023 Melbourne International Jazz Festival.

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Makaya McCraven & Marquis Hill

Immerse yourself in an enriching artist talk featuring two distinguished musicians and collaborators at the vanguard of modern jazz: Makaya McCraven and Marquis Hill.

Makaya McCraven is renowned for his groundbreaking fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and electronic elements, pushing the boundaries of post-genre, jazz-rooted 21st century music. According to the New York Times, “McCraven has quietly become one of the best arguments for jazz’s vitality”. With numerous critically acclaimed albums and collaborations with the likes of Jeff Parker, Willie Pickens, Nubya Garcia, Shabaka Hutchings and Brandee Younger, McCraven is an artist at the top of his game.

Internationally renowned musician, composer and bandleader, Marquis Hill has worked tirelessly to break down the barriers that divide musical genres. Contemporary and classic jazz, hip-hop, R&B, Chicago house, neo-soul—to Hill, they’re all essential elements of the profound African-American creative heritage he’s a part of. Hill’s mission to bring styles together, complemented by his absolute mastery of his instrument, is a through line connecting his many achievements, including winning the prestigious Thelonious Monk International Trumpet Competition in 2014.

Hear these two fascinating musicians share their perspectives on pushing artistic boundaries, their creative journeys, and shaping the future of contemporary jazz.

Facilitator: Samira Farah

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GoGo Penguin

In the latest episode of our Jazz Talk podcast, celebrated UK trio GoGo Penguin sits down with facilitator Owen McKern in an intimate conversation about band dynamics, creative processes, the Manchester music scene, and inspirations for their exhilarating latest album, Everything Is Going to Be OK.

This episode was recorded live at the 2023 Melbourne International Jazz Festival as part of our Close Encounters series of free events, following GoGo Penguin's debut Australian show.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.