Chi-chi Nwanoku
In conversation with Katy Hamilton

The ‘unstoppable, fizzing, passionate bundle of energy’ Chi-chi Nwanoku talks to Katy Hamilton about her mission to encourage young BME musicians, and the creation of a new orchestra called Chineke! (a Nigerian word meaning 'the spirit of all good creation'), described by Simon Rattle as ‘the kind of idea that could deepen and enrich classical music for generations’.

Chineke! are artists in residence at this year’s Ryedale Festival.

‘My aim is to create a space where BME musicians can walk on stage and know that they belong, in every sense of the word. If even one BME child feels that their colour is getting in the way of their musical ambitions, then I hope to inspire them, give them a platform, and show them that music, of whatever kind, is for all people.’ - Chi-chi Nwanoku

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