BISASO SSEMPEKE

                                          Albert Bisaso Ssempeke

Albert Bisaso Ssempeke was born into a family of musicians in Uganda, where traditional music ran deep in his blood. From a young age, the sounds of drums, flutes, and the rhythmic songs of his father surrounded him. His father was a renowned traditional musician in Uganda and most especially in the Buganda Kingdom where he was a royal court musician since 1960’s, and his father was a talented traditional musician variety of musical experience that played at ceremonies and festivals.

Bisaso’s childhood was filled with music and dance; as he watched his family members perform and listened to them teach him about the rich history of Ugandan traditional music. He was drawn to the sounds of the Akogo, a thumb piano that produced enchanting melodies, and he spent hours practicing on his own until he mastered it.

As he grew grown-up, Bisaso Ssempeke’s passion for music only intensified. He studied at Rhodes University in ethnomusicology after being awarded scholarship in the 2022, where he delved into ethnomusicology in traditional music. He learned about the different tribes and their unique musical traditions, and he became determined to preserve and promote this cultural heritage.

After completing his studies though he hasn’t graduated yet, Albert embarked on a journey to collect and record traditional Ugandan songs from various regions of the country. He traveled to remote villages and towns, where he met with local musicians and learned their songs and dances. He listened to the stories behind the music and was captivated by the way it had been passed down through generations.

Albert's mission was to blend the old with the new, to take the ancient sounds of Uganda and give them a modern twist. He began to experiment with different instruments and arrangements, blending traditional rhythms with contemporary beats. He collaborated with musicians from different genres, creating a fusion of styles that appealed to a wide audience and became a celebrated figure in the traditional and cultural music scene. His performances were electrifying, showcasing the diversity and richness of traditional Ugandan music. He played at festivals and concerts around the country, captivating audiences with his musical playing and dynamic stage presence.

Bisaso Ssempeke’s music was not just entertainment; it was a cultural statement. He used his platform to raise awareness about the importance of preserving traditional music and to inspire young musicians to embrace their heritage. He founded a musical ensemble known as Buganda music ensemble which he uses to show case his music teach children about traditional instruments and rhythms, passing on the knowledge that had been passed down to him.

One of Albert's most memorable moments came when he was invited to perform at a music festival in Europe such as German, Austria, Netherlands, United Kingdom etc. As he stood on stage, surrounded by international artists, he felt a deep sense of pride in representing his country and its unique musical traditions. The audience was mesmerized by the exotic sounds of the Amadinda music and strings and the hypnotic rhythms of the drums.

 Albert continued to inspire and mentor aspiring musicians, guiding them on their own musical journeys. He believed that music was a universal language that transcended boundaries and connected people from all walks of life. Through his music, he hoped to bridge the gap between the past and the present, preserving the legacy of Uganda's musical heritage for future generations to come.

His musical biography, he felt grateful for the opportunities and experiences that had shaped him into the artist he had become. He knew that his work was far from over and that there was still much to be done to ensure the survival of Uganda's traditional music. But he was determined to carry on, to keep playing and singing, and to keep sharing the beautiful sounds of his homeland with the world. And as he played his music in the fading light of the African sunset, he knew that the music would live on, echoing through generations.

 But one place held a special significance for him - the International Library of African Music in Grahams town, South Africa.

 The ILAM was a treasure trove of African musical instruments, recordings, and research materials, and Ssempeke had been invited to be a guest lecturer there for a month-long residency. He was thrilled at the opportunity to share his knowledge and skills with students from around the world who were eager to learn about African music and culture.

 As he arrived at the ILAM, Ssempeke was greeted warmly by the staff and students, who were excited to have such a distinguished musician in their midst. He conducted a series of workshops and master classes on various aspects of traditional Ugandan music styles.

 One of his favorite classes was on techniques of the Amadinda and Akadinda, a kiganda xylophone system that was used in former kingdom of Buganda. Ssempeke showed the students how to play the instrument and explained the importance of rhythm and melody in African music. The students were fascinated by the unique sound of the wide range of musical instruments from Uganda and eager to learn more. Ssempeke delved into the rich tradition of storytelling through music in African culture. He played traditional folk songs and explained how each song told a story or conveyed a message.

 The students were captivated by the power of music to communicate emotions and ideas across cultures. Ssempeke's residency at the ILAM was very special at its kind and always talks about the day performed for his recital for exam as performing musicians he did not ever thought in his life tat he will ever be examined when he performed a concert in front of examiner Boudiner and prof Andrew Tracy. The concert was held in lecture room of international library of African music, with the sounds of drums, flutes, Amadinda, lyre and fiddle, Ssempeke sang and danced with joy,

The audience, which included students, staff, and community, was swept away by the music, feeling a deep connection to the rhythms and melodies. Ssempeke's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and by the end of the concert, everyone was on their feet dancing and singing along. As the time came to an end, Ssempeke bid farewell to the ILAM with a heavy heart. He had forged bonds with the students and staff, sharing not just his knowledge of music but his love for African culture and heritage. The experience had been enriching for him as well, as he learned from the diverse perspectives and talents of the people he met.

 But Ssempeke knew that his work was far from over. He returned to Uganda with a renewed sense of purpose, determined to continue teaching and performing African music for audiences around the world. The memories of his time at the ILAM would always hold a special place in his heart, a reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire people of all backgrounds and nationalities.