BCMG to play Bob Marley
OrchestrasThe cutting-edge Birmingham Contemporary Music Group is giving a concert in Birmingham Town Hall with vocalist Basil Gabbidon, marking the 80th anniversary of the birth of reggae legend Bob Marley.
The artistic rationale?
BCMG director Stephan Meier said: ‘Basil approached me back in 2022 and drew my attention to the fact that some of reggae’s roots lie in French court music – if you listen closely, you can identify the French Bourree dance rhythm in many songs. Our composer Ben Graves has looked deeply into the origins of reggae and its links to European court music, notably in the works of the 18th century composer, abolitionist and former-slave, Ignatius Sancho. So many stories are revealed. It’s fabulous to prepare this very special event joining forces with Basil Gabbidon that celebrates the rich musical tradition of reggae.’
This is either fascinating or likely to persuade at least some that the joint birthday of Busoni and Rachmaninoff has come quite early this year…
‘Joint birthday’ haha very good
Mr Marley was probably uncertain about Busoni (kind of pasta?) and Rachmaninoff (oh, yea, that vodka label), but their joint would be surely welcome.
Artistic rationale? Bob Marley was one of the most important figures of 20th century music in any genre. What more is needed?