Internationally acclaimed Ukrainian pianist, musicologist, and cultural
scholar Taras Filenko will visit Nairobi from 15 to 20 February as part of a
cultural initiative aimed at strengthening artistic exchange and cultural dialogue
between Ukraine and Kenya through music and education.
From 16 to 19 February, Nairobi audiences will have a unique opportunity
to engage with Ukrainian musical heritage while exploring meaningful
connections between Ukrainian and African musical traditions through concerts,
lectures, and educational outreach activities.
RSVP HERE
Academic lectures and masterclasses
As part of the programme, Dr. Filenko will conduct lectures and
masterclasses at leading Kenyan academic institutions.
16 February, 17:30 – Strathmore University
Lecture and discussion for choral musicians, focusing on:
- Choral balance and ensemble sound
- Intonation and vocal precision
- Techniques for achieving and sustaining high notes
- Practical approaches to improving ensemble performance
(In preparation for participation in the Interkultur Kalamata Festival,
Greece)
18 February, 10:00 – Kenyatta University
Lectures and masterclasses covering: - Ethnomusicology and comparative musical traditions of Ukraine
and Africa - Piano masterclasses for classical, jazz, and improvisation students
- Interdisciplinary perspectives on music, history, and cultural identity
Dr. Filenko’s background in historical musicology enables
interdepartmental dialogue, including engagement with scholars and students in
history and cultural studies.
Professional and Youth Engagement
- 17 February, 15:00 — Piano masterclass at the Conservatory,
bringing together young musicians and professional performers - 19 February, 11:00 — Discussion and exchange with young
creative professionals at Creative Garage
Educational outreach is a key element of the visit: - 17 February, 11:00 — Workshop with children and young
musicians at Ghetto Classics - 17 February, 14:30 — Meeting and masterclass at Saint Mary’s
School
Concert Programme
- 17 February, 19:00 — Concert at Village Market, featuring works
by Ukrainian composers - 18 February, 18:00 — Main concert at Kenya National Theatre,
featuring Dr. Taras Filenko together with Kenyan singer and
instrumentalist Muhonja, performing on traditional African instruments,
and Kenyan dancer Brian Otieno Oloo, whose work draws on African
traditional and contemporary dance practices - 19 February, 18:30 — Organ music concert at St. Austin’s Parish,
featuring sacred works by Ukrainian and international composers
All events within the project are free of charge and open to the public. The
programme seeks to foster dialogue, mutual understanding, and professional
exchange between Ukrainian and Kenyan artists, educators, and audiences
through the universal language of music.