This event is part of a constellation of exhibitions and events at the Art Institute of Chicago and across the city that explore ideas around freedom, solidarity, and place from artists throughout Africa and the African diaspora.

South African musician Johnny “Mbizo” Dyani relentlessly sought freedom for over two decades. From the day he jumped on a stage in South Africa to jam on a borrowed bass with Chris McGregor’s Blue Notes, then exiled in Europe, and next through dozens of boundary-breaking collaborations, Dyani’s mission was to set the music free. Refusing to bow to apartheid and colonialism, Dyani was "jumping a bass-line like humping a landmine" (Lesego Rampolokeng). Join us as the South African-based band Chimurenga presents a performance of Dyani’s music, the sound of "Panafrica,” co-conducted by two of Chicago's favorite musical sons, Adam Zanolini and Ben Lamar Gay.

Dee Alexander - voice

Nicole Mitchell - flute, electronics

Adam Zanolini - woodwinds, bass, etc.

Fred Jackson - woodwinds

Ernest Dawkins - woodwinds

Ben LaMar Gay - cornet, electronics

Sharon Udoh - piano

Ivan Taylor - bass

JoVia Armstrong - percussion

Naydja Bruton - drums

This program is presented in partnership with the Art Institute of Chicago.

This program is generously sponsored by Efroymson & Hamid Family, as a part of Panafrica Days.

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