Songs of My Mother: Dec 12, 2026
Batuki Music Society presents Songs of My Mother: A Celebration of African Women at the Redwood Theatre on Saturday December 12th at 8 pm. Doors open at 7 pm.
Three electrifying vocalists and dancer with roots on the African continent will honour the role of women and mothers in carrying on musical traditions, featuring Lorraine Klaasen, Djely Tapa, Melat Mengesha and Mabinty Sylla.
Curated by Batuki Music Society, Songs of My Mother will showcase diverse stories and musical styles from different regions of sub-Saharan Africa. Featured will be two JUNO Award winners, South African-born Lorraine Klaasen and Malian-born Djely Tapa. Also on the bill is Melat Mengesha, winner of the Balageru (Ethiopian Idol) and Guinean-born dancer Mabinty Sylla. These women share their unique talents in a showcase of musical diversity and artistic excellence, supported by an ensemble of accomplished musicians from Toronto and Montreal.
This presentation shines a light on female singers and their significance in African customs, rituals and ceremonies. The first words or language that a child hears from their mother are often shared in song. This introduction to sound and words through song is a very common element in the bonding process between a mother and her newborn in most African cultures. Though singing is not solely done by women in most African societies, it is true that the female voice is ever present and sometimes is not given a prominent role that it deserves. Women are often discouraged from assuming leading roles, especially as bandleaders.
More than just an unforgettable evening of music and storytelling, Songs of My Mother aims to inspire mothers, daughters, grandmothers, sisters, and aunts to stand together and celebrate themselves as major contributors to the arts and the community.
Songs of My Mother: Lorraine Klaasen, Djely Tapa, Melat Mengesha, Mabinty Sylla
DATE: Saturday, December 12, 2026
VENUE: The Redwood Theatre, 1300 Gerrard St. East, Toronto
TIME: Doors 7 pm, Concert 8 pm
TIX: Advance $25 at EventBrite, Door $30
Batuki Music Society gratefully acknowledges the support of Canada Council for the Arts, Government of Canada, Government of Ontario, Canadian Heritage, Ontario Arts Council, Toronto Arts Council, Redwood Theatre and CIUT 89.5 FM.
