NSS Orchestra Presents: African Suites

NSS Orchestra presents an orchestral program exploring the lasting influence of African musical traditions on classical and contemporary music. The concert brings together works that connect African melodies, rhythms, jazz, and Western orchestral writing across generations and artistic traditions.

The program begins with Fela Sowande’s *African Suite*, which incorporates Yoruba melodies and rhythms into a Western classical setting and emphasizes the significance of African art music within the orchestral repertoire. The second half features *African Suite* by Abdullah Ibrahim, arranged by Daniel Schnyder. This contemporary work combines jazz-influenced harmonies with rhythms rooted in African musical traditions and features NSS Music Director and jazz pianist Dr. David Fanning on piano. Together, the pieces highlight the diversity of African-inspired orchestral music and the orchestra’s commitment to globally minded, inclusive programming.

Presented by: National String Symphonia

When: Sunday, September 27, 2026

Showtimes: 4:00–6:00 p.m. Doors open at 3:30 p.m.

Program: Fela Sowande’s *African Suite*; Abdullah Ibrahim’s *African Suite*, arranged by Daniel Schnyder

Featured artist: Dr. David Fanning, NSS Music Director and jazz pianist, on piano

Tickets: $35 general admission; $30 for seniors age 62 and older; $15 for students; free for children under 12. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door.

Venue: Calvary Lutheran Church

Address: 9545 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Accessibility: No accessibility information is currently available for this event.

Phone: (240) 428-0739

Email: info@nssorchestra.org

Website: https://nssorchestra.org