It was a sunny Sunday afternoon in May when the charming St. Edmund’s Church in Acle came alive with the vibrant sounds of African music, courtesy of the energetic PanAfro Band. The concert, held to raise funds for a noble cause, was a resounding success, bringing together the community and filling the air with joy and excitement. At the helm of the band was the charismatic Ugandan singer and dancer, Perfect Bakashaba, who led his talented team of musicians in a mesmerizing performance. The band’s eclectic lineup, featuring keyboards, guitar, trumpet, backing vocals, and an array of percussion instruments, was the perfect blend to get the crowd moving and grooving to the infectious rhythms of Africa.
As the concert kicked off, the audience was treated to a succession of upbeat and melodic songs that showcased the bright vocal and horn harmonies typical of African ‘guitar band’ music. The energy in the room was palpable, with the band’s infectious enthusiasm spreading like wildfire among the crowd. The music was a perfect amalgamation of traditional and modern styles, with each song telling a unique story of love, hope, and celebration. As the first half of the concert came to a close, the audience was left eagerly anticipating the second half, wondering what other musical delights the PanAfro Band had in store for them. The interval provided a welcome opportunity for the crowd to stretch their legs, mingle, and indulge in some delicious African-themed snacks, carefully prepared by churchwarden Diane. The treats included chin chin and Nigerian buns, with the recipe for the latter kindly provided by Father Alvan of St Peter’s church in Gorleston, who also happens to be a talented singer and percussionist in the band.
The second half of the concert was a testament to the band’s versatility, as they seamlessly transitioned into funkier and more percussive territory. The music was more energetic and dynamic, with each musician showcasing their individual skill and flair. The audience, now fully immersed in the music, couldn’t help but move their bodies to the rhythm. In fact, several enthusiastic members of the crowd were persuaded to don grass skirts and join the band on stage for an impromptu dance party. The final number was a grand finale of sorts, with the entire crowd coming together to create an unforgettable experience. As the music faded away, the audience was left beaming with joy, grateful for the incredible performance they had just witnessed. The sense of community and camaraderie was palpable, with strangers becoming friends and everyone united in their love for music and their support for a noble cause.
The concert was, of course, more than just a fantastic musical experience – it was a fundraiser for a very worthy cause. The event aimed to raise money for Access4Acle, a project dedicated to making St Edmund’s church step-free and accessible for everyone, including electric wheelchair users. The need for accessibility is a pressing issue in many public spaces, and it’s heartening to see a community come together to support such a vital initiative. The PanAfro Band’s concert was a shining example of how music can bring people together and inspire positive change. By attending the concert, the audience was not only treated to an unforgettable afternoon of music but also contributing to a cause that would make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
As the dust settled, and the crowd dispersed, the organizers were thrilled to announce that the concert had raised an impressive £323.25 for Access4Acle. It was a fantastic result, and a testament to the power of community and music to drive positive change. The success of the event was a result of the tireless efforts of the concert organizer, churchwarden Diane, and the PanAfro Band, who had all come together to create an unforgettable experience. The photo of the PanAfro Band in action, courtesy of LoLo Wynans, captures the essence of the concert – a celebration of music, community, and the human spirit. As we look to the future, it’s events like these that remind us of the impact we can have when we come together to support a common cause.
In conclusion, the PanAfro Band’s concert at St. Edmund’s Church in Acle was a resounding success, both as a musical experience and as a fundraiser for a worthy cause. The event showcased the power of music to bring people together, create unforgettable experiences, and drive positive change. As we reflect on the success of the concert, we are reminded of the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in our communities. The Access4Acle project is a shining example of how collective effort can lead to tangible positive change, and it’s heartening to see a community come together to support such an initiative. As we look to the future, let us draw inspiration from the PanAfro Band’s concert, and strive to create more events that bring people together, celebrate our diversity, and inspire us to make a difference in the lives of others.
