Wembley Park is set to host “Sounds of the World,” a celebration of global music and culture on Sunday, 4th August 2024. This free, family-friendly event will take place at the Sound Shell stage, located on the iconic Olympic Way in front of Wembley Stadium, transforming the Northwest London neighbourhood into a melting pot of musical diversity featuring talented artists from around the world.

“Sounds of the World” will offer audiences of all ages a unique opportunity to experience an eclectic mix of music and dance, from Lithuanian folk and Italian 50s jazz to Afrobeats and Cuban rhythms. The free event aims to showcase the rich tapestry of global musical traditions in the heart of London’s globally renowned entertainment district, with the world-famous Wembley Stadium as its backdrop.

The event will feature an impressive lineup of diverse performers. Kicking off the event is Emilija Karaliute, a talented Lithuanian harpist and vocalist known for blending traditional Baltic music with contemporary elements. Karaliute has been twice recognised as a National Laureate of Lithuania, indicating her esteemed position in the nation’s musical tradition. Her performances often feature the kanklas, a traditional Lithuanian instrument, which she skilfully integrates into a range of musical genres.

The Italian Radio Society, a five-piece band, will bring the lively sounds of 1950s Italy to life with a mix of jazz, swing, rockabilly, and Southern Italian folk music. Their performance promises a journey through the diverse musical landscape of mid-20th century Italy.

Carlos Morgado, a virtuoso classical Spanish guitarist, will also perform traditional and modern Spanish compositions. With over two decades of experience, Morgado has collaborated with numerous internationally recognised artists such as Luis Fonsi, Laura Pausini, Sergio Dalma, Miguel Bosé, David Summers, Bustamante and Mitch Malloy, among others.

Vincent Bugozi & Band will deliver high-energy Afrobeats from Tanzania, while Brent-based Carlton Thomas will lead an interactive Latin and Salsa dance workshop. Originating from Wembley, Dhol2Dhol will bring an energetic performance using the dhol, a percussion instrument deeply rooted in the Punjabi tradition from North India and Pakistan, particularly associated with Bhangra music.

Closing the event, Alma Latina, led by Cuban singer/songwriter Yuri Moreno, will fill the air with sultry Havana sounds. Moreno’s leadership brings authenticity and passion to the group’s performances, promising a thrilling finale to the day’s musical journey.

Kate Jones, Programme Director at Found in Music, the arts organisation curating the event, said: “We’re excited to bring ‘Sounds of the World’ to Wembley Park. This event embodies our commitment to celebrating diversity and bringing world-class performances to London and beyond. It’s a unique opportunity for visitors to experience a variety of cultures through music and dance, all in one afternoon, for free, in such an iconic location.”

Claudio Giambrone, Head of Cultural Placemaking at Wembley Park, added: “In curating ‘Sounds of the World’, we’ve aimed to create a musical journey that spans continents and generations. Each performer brings a unique cultural voice to the stage, offering audiences a truly global experience.”

Found in Music, with its long-standing relationship with Wembley Park, is behind several key music initiatives in the neighbourhood in past years. These include International Busking Day supported by the Mayor of London, the yearly Wembley Park Live Music Programme, The Gigs Competition for emerging artists, and the Wembley Music Academy. These initiatives highlight Found in Music’s commitment to fostering musical expression and cultural diversity in Wembley Park.

The event will run from 1:00 PM to 5:10 PM on Sunday 4th August 2024, featuring a diverse line-up of performers and interactive elements. No tickets are required for this free celebration of global music and culture.

Event Lineup

1:00 – 1:20 PM: Dhol2Dhol – Traditional Punjabi drum performance.

1:30 – 1:50 PM: Emilija Karaliute & Juknna – Fusion of modern and Lithuanian folk music.

2:05 – 2:35 PM: Italian Radio Society – Vintage Italian 1950s jazz & swing ensemble.

2:45 – 3:05 PM: Carlos Morgado – Spanish classic guitar solo performance.

3:20 – 3:50 PM: Vincent Bugozi & Band – Energetic Tanzanian Afrobeats.

4:00 – 4:30 PM: Salsa Workshop with Carlton Thomas.

4:30 – 5:00 PM: Alma Latina – Authentic Cuban sounds.