Presented by Con Kalamaras and Stani Goma
A Crossroads of Rebetiko and West African Blues
West African blues meets Greek rebetiko in an expanded, evolved musical dialogue.
Following a recent sold-out debut at Melbourne Recital Centre, Mande Blues Ensemble (MBE) and Estudiantina of Melbourne return with an expanded program that deepens their evolving collaboration. Performing fresh interpretations of West African blues classics reimagined through the emotional and modal language of Greek rebetiko, the ensembles reveal a musical conversation that has grown in confidence, depth, and expression.
From the neighbourhoods of Bamako to the docklands of Piraeus, music has long been a powerful voice for the marginalised. This performance unites the deep traditions of West African blues and the defiant spirit of Greek rebetiko, tracing a shared lineage of survival, yearning, and resistance.
Led by esteemed musicians Aboubacar Djéliké Kouyate (guitar) and Amadou Suso (kora), MBE weaves the kora's delicate, cascading melodies into evocative soundscapes. Estudiantina of Melbourne breathes new life into Greek rebetiko, often called the outlaw blues of Greece, blending the lively tones of the bouzouki with influences from Greek, Turkish, Jewish, and Armenian musical traditions.
Together, these artists engage in a powerful musical dialogue. The result is a moving celebration of music's ability to cross borders, amplify unheard voices and reveal the deep connections that bind us.
Duration: 1 hour (no interval). Please note, running times are approximate and subject to change.
Tickets
Standard $45 ($40 Concession)
Please note, seating in the Primrose Potter Salon is General Admission.
A Transaction Fee between $4 and $8.50 applies to orders made online and by phone. Delivery Fees may also apply. A ticket limit of six is in place online to ensure fair ticket access for all. Want to bring a bigger party? Call our Box Office during business hours on (03) 9699 3333 to book.
About the Artists
Mande Blues Ensemble (MBE)
Aboubacar Djéliké Kouyate guitar
Amadou Suso kora
A captivating meeting of tradition and innovation, Mande Blues Ensemble (MBE) brings the rich musical heritage of West Africa into dialogue with the deep, resonant tones of the blues. Led by acclaimed musicians Aboubacar Djéliké Kouyate (kamalengoni, guitar, percussion) and Amadou Suso (kora), MBE explores the shared roots of these traditions, tracing a musical lineage that spans centuries and continents. Hailing from esteemed griot families of Mali and Gambia, Kouyate and Suso are master storytellers and instrumentalists, weaving intricate melodies and hypnotic rhythms into an evocative soundscape. Their music carries the warmth of oral tradition while embracing contemporary influences, offering an experience that is both deeply authentic and refreshingly modern.
Perfectly suited to the intimate acoustics of Melbourne Recital Centre, MBE’s performances are a rich tapestry of virtuosic musicianship, evocative storytelling, and cultural connection—a testament to the enduring influence of Mande music on the global stage.
Estudiantina of Melbourne
Maria Antaras-Dalamagas accordion
Vagelis Ginis vocals
Jenny Dixon violin
Alex Petropoulos guitar, vocals
Paul Karalis bouzouki, oud
Con Kalamaras bouzouki
Camille El Feghali qanun
Rosco Heck percussion
In the vibrant city of Melbourne, Australia, with its thriving Greek diaspora community, the resonance of rebetiko and Smyrneika is profound. As one of the largest Greek populations outside of Greece, Melbourne pulsates with the rhythms of Greek music, dance, and traditions.
For Estudiantina of Melbourne, their music is not merely a performance but a bridge that connects generations, cultures, and communities. It serves as a conduit for the diaspora to rediscover their roots, share their stories, and celebrate their heritage with pride. Through the harmonious interplay of instruments like the bouzouki, baglama, and accordion, Estudiantina of Melbourne creates a soundscape that honours the rich cultural heritage of Greece.
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