By Samuel Ouma
APO Group, a prominent Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, has announced a new partnership with the Nairobi Chamber Chorus (NCC).
This collaboration aims to elevate the story of the renowned Kenyan choral ensemble in the future even as they prepare to join the U.S. tour of legendary film composer Hans Zimmer.
As part of the partnership, APO Group will provide pro bono public relations services to highlight NCC’s remarkable achievements. This initiative aims to inspire African youth by showcasing the ensemble’s journey and their success on international stages.
“Partnering with APO Group will allow us to share our message of peace and cultural unity through music,” said Ken Wakia, who was recently recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024. “Their expertise in communications will help us connect with new audiences as we continue to represent Africa’s musical excellence.”
Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group, shared his excitement for the collaboration.
“We are proud to support the Nairobi Chamber Chorus as they embody Africa’s creativity and talent. This partnership reflects our mission to amplify positive African stories and celebrate the continent’s contributions to the world.”
Founded in 2005 by visionary conductor Ken Wakia, the Nairobi Chamber Chorus has long stood as a symbol of Kenya’s artistic excellence. Over the past two decades, the ensemble has nurtured young talent, mentored over 200 alumni, and built a reputation as one of Africa’s leading choral groups. Their upcoming collaboration with Hans Zimmer – the Academy Award-winning composer known for iconic scores like The Lion King, Gladiator, Dune, and Inception – marks a significant milestone not just for NCC but for African music as a whole.
The partnership with Zimmer will see the choir performing alongside him in a world-class production, reaching audiences of hundreds of thousands around the globe. Notably, the Nairobi Chamber Chorus will join Zimmer on his "Hans Zimmer Live" tour in Australia and Asia later this year, following stops in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Austin, Texas.
The Nairobi Chamber Chorus has a remarkable history of breaking barriers. They were the first Kenyan choral group to perform for Queen Elizabeth II during her Diamond Jubilee in 2012. By 2019, they had become the only African ensemble invited to the American Choral Directors Association National Conference. Their recent collaboration with Hans Zimmer further cements their status as pioneers in the global music scene.
Beyond their musical achievements, NCC is committed to fostering peace and cross-cultural understanding. Initiatives like A Voice for Peace, which brought together choirs from around the world to perform the Zulu prayer song "Ukuthula," showcase their mission.
As NCC approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, the choir is preparing for an exciting year ahead. Their performances in Riyadh and Austin will pave the way for ongoing collaboration with Hans Zimmer, shining a spotlight on African artistry like never before.