The Next Stage Bandwagon Summer Series presents an evening of pan-African roots music with Ugandan musician, educator and creative arts producer Chinobay.

Chinobay’s work has been described as “some of the most exquisite music coming out of Africa today.” Since his youth, he has captivated audiences with world-roots rhythms and melodies that emanate from the diversity of the many traditional instruments he customized to develop his unique sound. The diverse textures of Chinobay’s music make it soothing, pulsing, meditative, invigorating, and intimate —much of it a mix of original and traditional with global influences—but the sounds are uniquely his.

Chinobay’s pan-African quartet brings together Cameronian producer and bassist Jonas Yologaza, Nigerian drummer Olaolu Ajibade, and duo national keyboardist William Pefok from Cameroon and Nigeria. Led by Chinobay’s voice African traditional instruments i.e. Kora, Kalimba, Endongo and Tama, this band has created a unique sound of their own tapping into various global influences with a strong foundation in African roots.

Chinobay’s education and outreach programs provide global audiences with a knowledge gateway into Africa through cross-cultural experiences and learning journeys that introduce Africa’s cultural arts, social studies and stories rarely covered by mainstream media, to lead a unique understanding of how we connect as humans across cultural and national lines.

Chinobay uses his music and voice to empower children and youth living in underserved communities to find purpose, restore dignity, develop talent, and build transformation. He founded Dance of Hope, an initiative that uses the transforming power of music, dance, and storytelling to educate and empower young people to become independent global citizens.

The Bandwagon Summer Series is a family-friendly outdoor cultural performance series running from early May through mid-October. More than 20 performances ranging from a diverse group of musical styles, circus arts, dance, and theater will take place at ballfields, farms, and parks throughout Windham County. Kids under 12 always get in for free, and a dedicated play area will be available at all shows. Refreshments are sold onsite, including the return of last summer’s hugely popular Barr Hill cocktails, and the new addition of some selections from Mad River Distillers. Bring a picnic and a blanket or fold-up chair to enjoy our concerts.

Support for the Bandwagon Summer Series is provided by VTDigger, Brattleboro Reformer, Oak Meadow, Whetstone Beer Co., Landmark College, Barr Hill, Mad River Distillers, The Porch Café and Catering, and People’s United, a Division of M&T Bank.