Burton Naidoo turns Mandela’s speeches into song
The words of the speeches are pitch-classed and harmonised.
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INSPIRED by the life and character of Nelson Mandela, pianist, composer, arranger and UKZN jazz lecturer Burton Naidoo has transcribed some of Mandela’s most iconic speeches for his new show Our Song at the Hilton Arts festival on Saturday.
The words of the speeches are pitch-classed and harmonized in an effort to create a musical backdrop to these important pieces. Burton has also written new compositions to compliment the performance.
ALSO READ: Hilton Festival puts spotlight on Mandela
Written for solo piano and track, the audience can expect speeches from the Rivonia Trial, Praise singing from Sthembile Mlangeni and Zolani Mkhiva at the inauguration, as well as FW De Klerks announcement to free Nelson Mandela at Parliament in 1990.
Prolific composer, Burton Naidoo has performed throughout the world and continues to push the boundaries of his musical imagination. He is currently leading his own band, Musical Democracy and is working with Ard Mathews of Just Jinj
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er fame.