Wembley Park is set to host “Sounds of the World,” a celebration of global music and culture on Sunday, 4th August 2024.
This free, family-friendly event will take place at the Sound Shell stage, located on the iconic Olympic Way in front of Wembley Stadium, turning the Northwest London neighbourhood into a melting pot of musical diversity.
“Sounds of the World is an opportunity to experience an eclectic mix of music and dance, from Lithuanian folk and Italian 50s jazz to Afrobeats and Cuban rhythms.
The event will feature an impressive lineup of performers. Kicking off the event is Emilija Karaliute, a talented Lithuanian harpist and vocalist known for blending traditional Baltic music with contemporary elements. Her performances often feature the kanklas, a traditional Lithuanian instrument, which she skilfully integrates into a range of musical genres.
The Italian Radio Society, a five-piece band, will bring the lively sounds of 1950s Italy to life with a mix of jazz, swing, rockabilly, and Southern Italian folk music. Their performance promises a journey through the musical landscape of mid-20th century Italy.
Carlos Morgado, a virtuoso classical Spanish guitarist, will also perform traditional and modern Spanish compositions. With over two decades of experience, Morgado has collaborated with numerous internationally recognised artists such as Luis Fonsi, Laura Pausini, Sergio Dalma, Miguel Bosé, David Summers, Bustamante and Mitch Malloy.
Vincent Bugozi & Band will deliver high-energy Afrobeats from Tanzania, while Brent-based Carlton Thomas will lead an interactive Latin and Salsa dance workshop.
Originating from Wembley, Dhol2Dhol will bring an energetic performance using the dhol, a percussion instrument deeply rooted in the Punjabi tradition from North India and Pakistan, particularly associated with Bhangra music.
Closing the event, Alma Latina, led by Cuban singer/songwriter Yuri Moreno, will fill the air with sultry Havana sounds. Moreno’s leadership brings authenticity and passion to the group’s performances, promising a thrilling finale to the day’s musical journey.
Kate Jones, Programme Director at Found in Music, the arts organisation curating the event, said: “We’re excited to bring ‘Sounds of the World’ to Wembley Park. This event embodies our commitment to celebrating diversity and bringing world-class performances to London and beyond.”
Claudio Giambrone, Head of Cultural Placemaking at Wembley Park, added: “In curating ‘Sounds of the World’, we’ve aimed to create a musical journey that spans continents and generations. Each performer brings a unique cultural voice to the stage, offering audiences a truly global experience.”
Found in Music, with its long-standing relationship with Wembley Park, is behind several key music initiatives in the neighbourhood in past years. These include International Busking Day supported by the Mayor of London, the yearly Wembley Park Live Music Programme, The Gigs Competition for emerging artists, and the Wembley Music Academy.
The event will run from 1:00 PM to 5:10 PM on Sunday 4th August 2024, featuring a line-up of performers and interactive elements. No tickets are required.
Event Lineup
1:00 – 1:20 PM: Dhol2Dhol – Traditional Punjabi drum performance.
1:30 – 1:50 PM: Emilija Karaliute & Juknna – Fusion of modern and Lithuanian folk music.
2:05 – 2:35 PM: Italian Radio Society – Vintage Italian 1950s jazz & swing ensemble.
2:45 – 3:05 PM: Carlos Morgado – Spanish classic guitar solo performance.
3:20 – 3:50 PM: Vincent Bugozi & Band – Energetic Tanzanian Afrobeats.
4:00 – 4:30 PM: Salsa Workshop with Carlton Thomas.
4:30 – 5:00 PM: Alma Latina – Authentic Cuban sounds.
For more information visit: wembleypark.com/sounds