Chineke is an Igbo word that combines “Chi”, the individual guardian or personal god who guides each person from cradle to coffin, and "neke" the creator of all good things; the rain, trees, grass and all diverse objects.

Together, Chineke! becomes a powerful exclamation in conversation, expressing wonder when something extraordinary happens. I added the exclamation mark (!) to capture that vibrant energy. For us, the name embodies our mission to foster and celebrate the talents of Black and ethnically diverse classical musicians, providing a platform for underrepresented voices. Our guiding principle, Unity in Diversity, reflects the inclusive and creative spirit at the heart of the Chineke! Foundation, Orchestra and Junior Orchestra.

When I founded Chineke! in 2015, it was in response to the absence of a Black network in UK classical music and the barriers I’d encountered in my career. Chineke! is like any other orchestra in that we perform concerts for audiences around the world, but we have an added purpose, which is uniquely shared: a commitment to bringing more representation of the world’s diverse populations to the stage.

Chineke! has grown with each season, welcoming new voices, building close friendships and collaborations, and creating a safe space where musicians can grow both artistically and personally. One of the most common things I hear from players is how welcome and at home they feel here, sharing in our purpose with pride. This shared commitment brings a vibrant energy to every performance, making each concert a celebration of what diversity can bring to classical music.

Our programming blends compositions by lesser-known and overlooked composers with works from the regular classical canon. This approach is intentional and meaningful: it allows us to showcase the breadth and diversity within classical music, while bringing attention to pieces that have been unjustly neglected. We’ve uncovered some absolute gems along the way and are thrilled to see other orchestras now playing some of these remarkable works as well.

Derrick Skye’s “Prisms, Cycles, Leaps” is a heady mix of Ghanaian rhythms and melodies inspired by Balkan and Indian classical music, creating a sound that feels both intricate and expansive. Brian Raphael Nabors' Concerto for Orchestra brings a bold American flavour, blending Southern hip-hop energy with touches of heavy metal and cinematic style. Each movement explores a new pulse or vibe, making both works fresh and exciting additions to the orchestral world.

Isata was actually one of the founding musicians of the Chineke! Orchestra, playing in our viola section for the first two years. She’s already performed as a soloist with us in Errollyn Wallen's Concerto Grosso (a triple concerto for violin, double bass & piano with string orchestra), which we recorded together, but this will be her first time as a solo pianist with the full Chineke! Orchestra. It’s a lovely next step in her journey with us, and we’re absolutely thrilled to see her shine on stage in Berlin.