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Picture of marvin gaye with the sun behind

Nu Civilisation Orchestra presents What’s Going On

A celebration of 50 years of Marvin Gaye’s seminal album

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Produced by Tomorrow’s Warriors as part of their brand new partnership with St George’s Bristol, the incredible 23-piece Nu Civilisation Orchestra celebrates the 50th anniversary of Marvin Gaye’s iconic masterpiece, widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time.  Recorded and released in 1971, What’s Going On gave voice to a generation as it reflected on the violence and turmoil of U.S society.  Half a century later, it continues to chime with the confusion and uncertainty of the present day.

For this very special performance, Nu Civilisation Orchestra, led by Peter Edwards and joined by special guests including vocalists Noel McKoy and Cherise, Bristol MC Saili Katebe, altoist Nathaniel Facey and drummer Rod Youngs among a wealth of young jazz and soul talent, will reflect on current times through the lens of Gaye’s extraordinary song cycle. For the opening set, the ensemble explores themes from Gaye’s cult blaxploitation score from 1972, ‘Trouble Man’.

Plus immersive visuals by Yeast Culture

Full band lineup below

Gallery: 1/4 - Full Band, 2/4 - Noel McKoy, 3/4 - Saili Katebe, 4/4 - Noel McKoy

 

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Long line of brass musicians in a line stood against a big wall of graffiti
Man in tuxedo
Man sitting on his haunches wearing jeans and a tshirt
Man looking into camera

What's Going On Nu Civilisation Orchestra Line-Up

Peter Edwards Musical Director
Saili Katebe Spoken Word

Noel McKoy Lead Vocals
Cherise Vocals
Cara Crosby Irons Backing Vocals
Kianja Harvey Elliott Backing Vocals

Ellie Smith Trombone
Hanna Mbuya Bass Trombone
Becca Toft Trumpet
Kurt Mayling Trumpet
Nathaniel Facey Alto Sax
Denys Baptiste Tenor Sax
Rhiannon Jeffreys Baritone Sax

Will Gibson Clarinet/Flute

Valeria Pozzo Violin
Rhiannon Dimond Violin
Julia Dos Reis Viola
Miranda Lewis Cello

Jihad Darwish Bass
Sonia Konate Guitar
Rod Youngs Drums
Sarah Tandy Piano
Noda Oreste Percussion

Pre-event Food & Drink

Enjoy delicious drinks and light bites from our Café Bar ahead of the event.

Available to pre-order when booking your tickets, you can choose from a selection of house drinks on arrival, accompanied by a board of bread, olives and dips (all Vegetarian). Just select which option – for one or two people – you would like, before checkout. Or if you’ve already booked, please email boxoffice@stgeorgesbristol.co.uk to add your food to your order.

Your pre-ordered food and drink will be available to collect from the Café Bar from 90 minutes before the event. It’s the perfect way to begin your event experience at St George’s!