ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Serge Kakudji and David Demange Release Baroque Album "Mwezi Una Angara"

publication · 2026-10-13

In October 2026, the album "Mwezi Una Angara," meaning "the moon shines" in Swahili, was launched by Congolese countertenor Serge Kakudji and classical guitarist David Demange. This duo, active since 2022, merges Kakudji's unique countertenor vocals with Demange's classical guitar, showcasing compositions by Purcell, Handel, Bellini, and original works from Kakudji, accompanied by guest artist Petit Solo Ndiabaté on ngoni. Their partnership began four years ago at a festival in eastern France. Kakudji hails from Kolwezi, DRC, and is recognized as a trailblazing African countertenor, while Demange boasts a varied musical background. They were featured on Nathalie Amar's program on RFI. Additionally, Chebli Msaidie is set to present "La dernière Symphonie" on 17 October at the Institut français de Kinshasa.

Key facts

  • Serge Kakudji and David Demange released the album "Mwezi Una Angara" in October 2026
  • "Mwezi Una Angara" means "the moon shines" in Swahili
  • The duo has performed together since 2022
  • The album includes works by Purcell, Handel, and Bellini plus original compositions by Serge Kakudji
  • Petit Solo Ndiabaté contributes ngoni on the album
  • Serge Kakudji grew up in Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and is a pioneering African countertenor
  • The duo met while sharing a festival stage in eastern France four years ago
  • Chebli Msaidie presents "La dernière Symphonie" on Saturday 17 October at the Grande Halle de l'Institut français de Kinshasa

Entities

Artists

  • Serge Kakudji
  • David Demange
  • Petit Solo Ndiabaté
  • Petit Solo Diabaté
  • Nathalie Amar
  • Chebli Msaidie
  • Papa Wemba
  • Purcell
  • Handel
  • Bellini

Institutions

  • RFI
  • Institut français de Kinshasa

Locations

  • Kolwezi
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • France
  • Kinshasa

Sources