The home of Abel Selaocoe is in Sebokeng, a township south of Johannesburg, South Africa. But home has many meanings for the cellist, whether it is a physical place, such as Africa or Manchester (where he now resides), or the emotional support that he finds within his instrument. Selaocoe explores this abstract notion of the "home" with his debut album Where is Home / Ha ke Kae, the result of which is a testament to his extraordinary musical gift.
Where Is Home (Hae Ke Kae) by Abel Selaocoe – African music meets the Baroque
Warner Classics"As an African cellist, I've always been looking for a home. But home is not a geographical space, it's the places in life that empower you—and these are not always comfortable," Selaocoe said to The Guardian. Abel Selaocoe is much more than a cellist, he is above all a musical innovator. Where is Home / Ha ke Kae draws on influences from all corners of his life, from his birthplace to the musical refuge he found in the works of the Baroque era. Abel seamlessly merges two forms of improvisational music: traditional African compositions and Baroque works by Bach and Platti. There are also two beautiful solo interludes that explore the sonic complexity of Selaocoe's voice and instrument.
Abel Selaocoe & Yo-Yo Ma record Ibuyile I'Africa / Africa is Back
Warner ClassicsThe whole album is a pure joy to listen to, whether it be the moving arrangements of traditional African songs - among which Zawose (for Hukwe Zawose) particularly highlights the cello's melodies as well as Selaocoe's voice - or the simply astonishing and inventive interpretations of Bach's all-too-famous Cello Suites (especially n°3 and 5)
Abel Selaocoe plays Zawose (for Hukwe Zawose)
Warner ClassicsHis arrangement of Platti's Sonata No. 7 - "I. Adagio" is a highlight, setting aside the Baroque tradition of solo and continuo (usually another cello, harpsichord or lute) and instead incorporating a Baroque theorbo, double bass and the traditional West African kora. The extended improvisational lines of the kora make for a sublime marriage between the organic improvised nature of Baroque music. Without a doubt, Abel Selaocoe is one of the brightest stars in the music world today and will shape the future of classical music to come. The perfect Qobuzissime!
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