music
Anw Be Yonbolo. In the Bambara language of Mali, this phrase means “we are together.” Whenever a conflict arises, these words are used as a way to resolve it together. Anw Be Yonbolo embodies the courage to embrace difference, the intimacy of connecting with others, and the sense of purpose that comes from knowing we can coexist. It is with this principle of unity and sisterhood that Naïny Diabaté and Eve Risser come together in a powerful and urgent duo, embracing this pillar of Mandinka culture. The duo is about to release their debut album, on the BMC label, serving as the theme for this concert, which is part of their first promotional tour.
The origins of this project trace back to the Kogoba Basigui collective, which brought together Risser’s Red Desert Orchestra and Diabaté’s Kaladjula Band. In Anw Be Yonbolo, the two leaders condense the 16-member orchestra into a recital featuring only voice and piano. Each composer evokes her vast and rich musical heritage while allowing herself to be inspired by what is less familiar. With an unforgettable voice, Diabaté is the successor to a long line of griots, storytellers, and guardians of the wisdom and customs of the peoples of West Africa. Since the 1980s, she has been a central figure in Malian music, standing out as the founder of the country’s first all-female orchestra. Risser, meanwhile, is one of the most experienced pianists in the world of improvised music. A native of France, she brings the legacy of composers and musicians from the European and American canon. Guided by affection and sisterhood, they create a free form of Mandinka music—focused and explosive—conceived by and for women to tell their story. They speak of women’s rights, the protection and dignity of children, and reinforce the essential value of coexistence. Discovering and savoring each other’s music, sharing becomes creation, and creation becomes one of those concerts that is impossible to remain indifferent to.
supported by portuguese republic – culture, youth and sports / general direction of the arts. portuguese contemporary art network (rpac). rtcp – network of portuguese theaters and cinemas.
