Context
Sirocco: Ka Bohaleng
Abel Selaocoe is a versatile cellist and composer, combining virtuosic performance with improvisation, singing and body percussion. In 2016, he formed Chesaba – a trio specializing in music from the African continent, including many of his own compositions. Since then he has toured widely, performing at the BBC Proms in 2021 and giving concerts around the world. Abel has a close partnership with Manchester Collective, with whom he devised the highly successful Sirocco programme.
Ka Bohaleng is dedicated to all mothers – it means ‘On the sharp side’ (“i.e. it is women who take the initiative and sacrifice themselves for us” says Selaocoe) in the South African language of Sesotho.
Listen & Watch For
- Selaocoe begins by playing his cello pizzicato followed by singing a lyrical melody in free time.
- The singing then changes to a raw, low-pitched sound – this technique is known as umngqokolo overtone singing
- The music builds as the violins join the cello with long notes rising by step and accompanying the singing.
- Change of tempo, mood and texture at 1:33.
- Fast pizzicato cello passage at 1:38 accompanied by long arco violin notes and punchy bass guitar notes.
- Notice the energetic interaction (both vocal and instrumental) between Selaocoe and the other musicians.
- Virtuosic djembe solo by Sidiki Dembélé from 5:05.
As you continue listening think about how Selaocoe creates an engaging performance? How much is it improvised and how much do you think is pre-composed?
Things To Consider
- How can you create a sense of excitement in your composition? Think about how you might use ‘call and response’ or ‘question and answer’ to create musical conversation and interaction.
- Selaocoe has brought together an unusual combination of instruments and influences from Western and non-Western traditions. How could you explore a fusion of different styles and traditions in your music?