Biography
The Bantu Ensemble was founded in 2022 by cellist Abel Selaocoe. Other members include musicians Alan Keary (bass), Fred Thomas (piano), and Dudù Kouaté (percussion). With their innovative approach to reinterpreting classical music, the Bantu Ensemble moves seamlessly between a variety of genres and styles, integrating elements from classical, jazz, and other musical traditions into their works based on their own or well-known compositions.
The ensemble can be heard on Selaocoe's debut album ›Hae Ke Kae‹ (Where is Home) and on ›Hymns of Bantu‹, released in 2024/25. The group has performed at venues including the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, the Southbank Centre in London, the Berlin and Cologne Philharmonic Halls, and the Vienna Konzerthaus.
In 2025, the Bantu Ensemble made its debut at the Glastonbury Festival in the UK, and another highlight of the season was its first US tour with performances at Carnegie Hall and the La Jolla Music Society in San Diego.
In the 2025/26 season, the Bantu Ensemble will give its first concert with the DSO.