Aurelio Martinez – one of the most gifted Garifuna musicians of his generation – makes his UK debut on December 4 at London’s Union Chapel as part of the celebrations of the Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative in London in December – a global programme that brings talented young artists together with renowned figures in all fields of the arts for a year of individual guidance. In 2008, Senegalese star Youssou N’Dour invited Martinez to join the initiative.

The Garifuna people live in the Caribbean coastal regions of central America, and are descendants of Africans who were transported across the Atlantic in the slave trade, but who escaped to live free on the island of St Vincent, before being shipped to Roatán Island just off the Honduran coast by the British in the late 18th century after clashes with the British in St Vincent.

Garifuna music retains distinct African rhythms that have become blended with Latin, Amerindian and modern musical styles. Martinez was an original member of the Garifuna All Star Band and played with the late Andy Palacio. Today, he is one of the foremost artists of the unique Garifuna culture of central America. His UK debut show will be introduced by world music DJ Charlie Gillett.

Union Chapel, Compton Avenue, London N1 2XD

Tickets £7.50 + bkg fee from Barbican Box Office 020 7638 8891

www.barbican.org.uk

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Tags: aurelio martinez, garifuna, union chapel