The Nile Project: Inspiring change, one country at a time

“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” – Victor Hugo

The Nile River, the longest in the world, makes its way through 11 different countries, each with its own songs, dances, languages, and traditions. The river is vital to life in the region, but it also is a huge source of conflict. How should the water be used? Who gets to decide? While these issues have been discussed and argued over for years, other problems, including pollution, an ever-growing population of users, and global warming, have been largely ignored.

How do you inspire these different river regions to come together and preserve this important part of their lives? The answer’s simple, according to The Nile Project: music.

Music means something different to everyone. However, it can unite us in ways that words alone cannot.  Mixing sounds, instruments, and dances from the different countries along the world’s longest river, the Project hopes to use a new, unified sound to create a shared Nile identity.

Audiences can expect some familiar instrumental sounds, such as the violin and bass guitar, but can also expect to experience many new sounds as well. Some of the ensemble’s instruments that I’m particularly excited to hear include the Ethiopian Masenko (similar to a spike fiddle), the Ugandan Adungu (similar to a lyre), and the pan-Nile percussion section. In addition, six vocalists will be singing in 11 different languages.

I think the themes and goals of The Nile Project will make this performance different from any other at Northrop. The level of passion that these artists carry is inspiring. The hope of overcoming differences and eliminating borders is something that we all strive for in our own lives, so I’m grateful that the company is coming to Northrop to share their message.

Be sure to get your tickets now to see The Nile Project perform at Northrop on Tue, Feb 24 at 7:00 pm!

For more information on the company and performance, check out this YouTube video and TED Talk.