As the nation’s 11th largest city and perennial Live Music Capital, Austin has become a mecca for international musicians. They are drawn by the talented players, enthusiastic audiences, numerous venues, and the city's laidback musical vibe. St. David’s Episcopal Church is spotlighting this often-overlooked musical niche with its continuing world concert series inside its 170-year-old church sanctuary in downtown Austin.
The initiative began when John Burnett retired last year as a longtime globetrotting correspondent for NPR. He approached Father Chuck Treadwell, rector at St. David’s, and suggested starting a live music series. Burnett aimed to bring music he had encountered during his assignments around the world to local audiences. “Astonishingly, I found great world musicians under my nose in 512,” said Burnett.
In its inaugural season from September 2023 to May 2024, the concert series featured rhythms and harmonies from countries including Niger, Ghana, Brazil, Colombia, Bolivia, El Salvador, Egypt, Iran, Cuba, Morocco, India, Mexico, and Ireland. The World Music Encounters series was well-received with over 200 attendees each night. As a nonprofit endeavor produced by volunteers and church staff—including Burnett—the focus was on supporting musicians financially.
The mission of World Music Encounters extends beyond entertainment to educate audiences about unfamiliar music genres. At intermission during concerts, Burnett interviews band leaders about their music's origins and their journeys to Austin. For example, Ibrahim Aminou discussed using a talking drum for communication in Niger; Gabriel Santiago spoke about the evolution of jazz guitar in Brazil; and Andrea Magee shared her musical upbringing in Belfast.
The second season of World Music Encounters continues with upcoming performances:
- On Sept. 22: A’lante Flamenco featuring Cuban guitarist José Tejeda along with three dancers.
- On Nov. 17: Abou Sylla and Bramaya will perform traditional West African drumming.
- On Feb. 2: Javier Chaparro from Peru will perform with his band Salud.
- On April 27: Three Japanese traditional musicians will present ancient Japanese music culminating in a jazz trio performance.
St. David’s is encouraged by the response to the concert series which now enjoys a loyal following. The family-friendly Sunday concerts run from 5 to 7 p.m., offering free garage parking at the venue. Tickets priced between $15-$35 are currently on sale with a discount available using code CHAMBER.
Come join as St. David’s brings global music and conversation center stage in downtown Austin starting Sunday, Sept. 22.