ODE TO JOY: KINSHASA SYMPHONY

Kinshasa Symphony, a film by Claus Wischmann and Martin Baer, is a gripping documentary following the Kimbanguiste Symphony as they prepare for their first public show.

Conductor Armand Diangienda

We're introduced to several members of the symphony including:  Albert Nlandu Matubanza, orchestra manager, who after a shortage of instruments, taught himself how to make instruments for the entire orchestra; Nathalie Bahati, a single mother who works as a wedding decorator during the day and plays the flute for the orchestra; and Armand Diangienda, a trained pilot who founded the orchestra after losing his job in 1994.

A member of the symphony rehearsing before the big show

Filled with beautiful music and heartfelt stories, Kinshasa Symphony is more than just a movie, it's a movement.You can't help but to fall in  love with the people in this film; you'll cry with them, you'll laugh with them, you'll celebrate their triumphs and applaud them for overcoming their tribulations.

The dedication of the people in this orchestra is undeniable; they live, eat, breathe, and sleep classical music. After watching this film, I truly feel inspired and know what it means to follow your passions no matter what.


Check out the trailer of Kinshasa Symphony, here:

-FARIDA