BACKThe world looked on in absolute horror last month as a deadly 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Nepal. The effects of the disaster have directly affected 8 million people with over 7,000 official casualties and many more unofficially. The earthquake destroyed scores of buildings in Kathmandu in particular but has also severely affected the region’s rural areas. Aid is desperately needed, food and water are in short supply and the risk of disease threatens.
Music of all genres has always had the unique ability to bring people together for a cause and there are a few concerts planned to help raise money for the relief operation in Nepal. Below is a selection, please attend and give generously, the people of Nepal need our help.
In aid of the Disasters Emergency Committee Nepal Earthquake Appeal, the tutors of Southwark Music Service will present a programme of jazz, classical and other genres performed by various ensembles linked to the Service.
Sir Neville Marriner and Friends Play for Nepal, 28 May St James’ Piccadilly, 7:30pm
A prestigious line up of oboist Nicholas Daniel, violinist Kenneth Sillito and past and present members of the Academy of St Martin in the Fields all conducted by Sir Neville Marriner will join forces for the Disasters Emergency Committee Nepal Earthquake Appeal on 28 May. Repertoire includes Elgar, Bach, Marcello and Tchaikovsky. All involved are donating their time and services for free.
Classical Music Gala Concert for Nepal, 29 May St Barnabas Church, London W5 1QG, 7:30pm
Pianist Alicja Fiderkiewicz and cellist Corinne Morris have called upon their solo and chamber musician friends to organise this concert on 29 May. Alongside a world premiere by Keith Burstein, Murray McLachlan, Artur Pizarro, Viv Mclean, Carlo Grante and Nico de Villiers will join Alicja and Corinne at St Barnabas Church with all proceeds also going to the Disasters Emergency Committee Nepal Earthquake Appeal. The target is £10,000, come along to help them reach and exceed this goal.
Nepal Earthquake Fundraiser, 9-10 May Brixton Jamm 261 Brixton Road, 6pm onwards
If you fancy something other classical music, Brixton Jamm’s usual Saturday night will be dedicated to raising money for Circus Kathmandu, a local charity involved in setting an example in fair and best circus practises in the area. They have been on the ground in Nepal for some time before the earthquake and engage young people whilst also working closely with anti-trafficking organisations. You can be sure that by supporting this charity, the money will go straight to those who need it most. The great lineup includes artists such as Basement Jaxx, Kissy Sell Out and Audio Bullys. Find out the full list on the Facebook event page.
If you cannot make these events please consider donating directly to the DEC or to the Red Cross.
Photo: EPA/Narenda Shrestha