A Day of Global Rhythms: Celebrating cultural harmony at CommuniTree Festival

July at Clarendon Chambers was filled with the vibrant sounds of the world as we celebrated the annual CommuniTree Festival. This year’s festival was a testament to the power of music in bringing people together, with an incredible lineup of artists who brought diverse cultural traditions to life through their performances. From the Celtic tunes of Kellys Heroes to the reggae rhythms of Big Ship Alliance, the day was a joyful celebration of global music, unity, and community spirit.

A World of Music on One Stage

CommuniTree Festival at Clarendon Chambers wasn’t just an event; it was a journey through different cultures, each represented by some of the most talented and unique artists around. Here’s a closer look at the performers who made the day so unforgettable:

Kellys Heroes: Celtic Spirit and Tradition

Kicking off the festival with their lively Celtic tunes, Kellys Heroes set the tone for a day of celebration. This Nottingham-based group has been a staple in the Celtic music scene for years, known for their energetic performances that blend traditional Irish and Scottish folk music with a modern twist. The band’s lineup, featuring fiddle, accordion, guitar, and vocals, had the crowd clapping and dancing from the first note. Kellys Heroes have shared stages with some of the biggest names in folk music and have performed at festivals all over Europe, spreading the joy of Celtic music wherever they go.

TwoManTing: Afro-Roots Sunshine with a Conscious Message

Next up was TwoManTing, an Afro-roots duo known for their infectious rhythms and positive vibes. Consisting of Sierra Leonean percussionist Jah-man Aggrey and UK-based guitarist Jon Lewis, TwoManTing’s music is a blend of traditional African beats, reggae, and highlife, all wrapped up with a socially conscious message. Their name, “TwoManTing,” reflects their belief in the power of small, meaningful actions—just two people, but with a message that resonates far and wide. Their performance was a highlight of the festival, bringing a sunshine-filled sound that had everyone moving.

Millicent Chapanda: The Soulful Sounds of Zimbabwe

Millicent Chapanda’s performance was nothing short of mesmerising. A master of the mbira, the traditional thumb piano of Zimbabwe, Millicent is a cultural ambassador for her country’s music and traditions. Her deep, soulful sound is rooted in the spiritual music of the Shona people, with each note of the mbira telling stories of ancient times, connection to the land, and the resilience of the Zimbabwean people. Millicent’s performances are not just about music; they are an immersive experience that invites the audience to feel the spirit of Zimbabwe through every note and song.

Gnawa Blues All Stars: A Fusion of Moroccan Tradition and Modern Blues

Adding another layer of global music to the festival was the Gnawa Blues All Stars. This band, led by Moroccan musician Simo Lagnawi, blends the hypnotic rhythms of traditional Gnawa music with elements of blues and jazz. Gnawa music, rooted in the spiritual and healing traditions of Morocco’s Gnawa people, is known for its trance-inducing rhythms and powerful chanting. The Gnawa Blues All Stars took the audience on a musical journey that was both meditative and exhilarating, showcasing the deep spiritual roots and vibrant energy of this unique fusion.

Big Ship Alliance: Reggae Vibes with a Jamaican Heart

Closing out the festival on a high note was Big Ship Alliance, a Jamaican reggae band that brought the classic sounds of roots reggae to Clarendon Chambers. Known for their smooth grooves and conscious lyrics from well-known and loved names in the reggae music scene, Big Ship Alliance had everyone swaying and singing along. The band’s name is a nod to the "Big Ship" era of reggae, popularised by legendary artist Freddie McGregor, and they continue that legacy by delivering performances filled with positivity and love. Their set was the perfect way to end a day of music, leaving the audience with the warm vibes that only reggae can provide.

CommuniTree: A Space for Everyone

The success of this year’s CommuniTree Festival was a reminder of the power of inclusivity and community. At CommuniTree, we believe that everyone, regardless of background, age, ability, or experience, has something valuable to contribute. Our festival was a celebration of diversity, not just in the music we showcased but in the people who came together to enjoy it.

Clarendon Chambers was alive with the sounds of different cultures, but more importantly, it was filled with a sense of belonging and unity. Whether you were dancing to the Celtic reels of Kellys Heroes, getting lost in the rhythms of Gnawa Blues All Stars, or swaying to the reggae beats of Big Ship Alliance, the festival was a space where everyone was welcome.

The next festival event…

As we reflect on the success of the CommuniTree Festival, we are filled with gratitude for the artists, volunteers, and participants who made it all possible. The festival was more than just a day of music—it was a celebration of what it means to be part of a global community.

We look forward to continuing this tradition of inclusivity and creativity at future CommuniTree events. Thank you to everyone who joined us in July. Let’s keep the spirit of CommuniTree alive all year round, where creativity, culture, and community continue to grow together! The next stop for CommuniTree Festival (in the community!) is over at Nottingham’s urban farm, Stonebridge City Farm, where we’ll be supporting the farm in developing their very own community arts festival. Find and follow us on social media for all updates. (Facebook / Instagram / TikTok)