Our first live event in over 2 years, this was a special concert, with some of Brightons finest Global/Local musicians . Organised in collaboration with Brighton and Hove Libraries, at the Jubilee Library, as part of Libraries Week 2021. A warm thanks to them and all the staff who made the event possible.
After a long time without live music and the sadness of the Covid pandemic, Saturday morning bought a mix of emotions; the joyful anticipation of people meeting to share music and friendship again, although I also wondered if anyone would turn up, and would it all go to plan? We'd not done a gig for a long time, would people remember? Would they be nervous about attending a concert?
In the end there was no need to worry, the venue filled with familiar faces, and a feeling of rekindling friendships after a long break. Many stayed for all 3 performances, creating a warm sociable atmosphere. The musicians enjoyed themselves and the crowd certainly showed appreciation for the music and occasion. People chatted amongst themselves between the musicians sets and new friendships were made.
A huge thanks to Brighton and Hove Libraries the musicians, the lovely audience, the whole team and everyone who helped make the day a memorable success.
Music Program:
Kourosh Kouchakpour & Reza
Big thanks to Przekek Karpicki for all his work making the lovely video documentary of the afternoon.
Thanks Greg Iwanski for the fantastic photographs. More of Gregs work here
Thanks Refugee Radio for this program featuring music and chat from the day
We appreciate that not everyone was able to attend the concert, and there are some who wanted to support the various refugee fundraisers. Info is below
Music Gift Cards
There will also be an artists merchandise table, with our new 'Music Gift Cards' (See images below) - Pick your favourite design and chose which artist/cause to support.
Music options:
Bashir Al Gamar. In aid of Bashir's childhood village & school in Sudan, a region badly affected by conflict and recently Covid. In January 2024, Bashir, in collaboration with friends and family, raised funds to install a water well in the village, bringling clean safe water for the first time in many years.
Calais 'Jungle Camp' recordings. In aid of Care 4 Calais, Afghan Refugees - Emergency Appeal.
Jamal & Alaa. In aid of local refugee hardship fund.
Ghoraba2. Funds go direct to the musicians, in Lebanon. The album is a collaboration between Lebanese rappers & producers alongside young refugees from Syria and Palestine, based in refugee camps in Lebanon.
Fast & Easy Syrian Food, by Manal Gharzeddin.
Delicious, easy to make Syrian recipes, in aid of medical supplies for people in Syria.
Musicians Playing on the day
Polina Shepherd & The Brighton & Hove Russian & Yiddish Choirs
More of Polina's excellent work is here
Kourosh Kouchakpour
Bashir Al Gamar
