I have to be honest, I had a lot of trepidation when it came to traveling to Russia, for the first time and then on to Kazakhstan. Not only had I not heard much about this region, but the things that I did hear where not positive – most significantly the overt racism towards people of African decent. However, my experience was nothing but positive and in fact I now say that the Kazakhs are the most kind and nurturing people I’ve ever met throughout all of my travels. People were so affectionate; often giving me hugs and cheek kisses after a show; they were generous: I always received flowers or chocolates, and very accommodating; they fed me well and made sure I had whatever I needed to be comfortable.

I didn’t have much time to explore each of the six cities I performed in, but I did eat the food and met a multigenerational audience of music appreciators who came out to my concerts each night. I performed in some of the most decorative music venues (in Uralsk & Atyrau), the most uncommon (Karaganda Circus) and in cafes that felt like they could be in Paris (MuzCafe, Almaty). I performed with four different groups of musicians: two quartets, organized by Russian pianist Alex Cheremizov, and two orchestras and I must say, I rocked it out. This was an incredible experience musically and culturally , and I would go back to Kazakhstan whenever next I receive an invite.

Now to my trip in concert photos. (click to enlarge)

Here was our itinerary:

– Sun. May 27 Aktobe,  Art Centre Aktobe

– Mon. May 28 Oral/Uralsk 

– Tues. May 29 Atyrau

– Wed. May 30th & Thurs. May 31 Pavlodar, Palette Jazz festival

– Fri. June 1 Karaganda, Karaganda Circus

– Sat. June 2  Almaty, Muz Café

– Sun. June 3 Atyrau, Armata Restaurant

Want to see more…

And here is a moment I really enjoyed from the tour…more on my YouTube channel