French drummer leads sessions in Portland

Renowned French drummer, composer, and leader of the jazz band OZMA, Stéphane Scharlé, launched his South African tour with a vibrant day of music and community engagement in Mitchell’s Plain. 

At the first stop at Alliance Française in Portland on his tour through South Africa, Lesotho, and Namibia, the event held on Friday May 16 brought together local artists and residents for a unique cultural experience.

The day began with an energetic music workshop. Local artists participated in hands-on sessions led by Stéphane, where he shared insights into his innovative approach to drumming. 

“I started drumming at age 8 and never stopped because I loved it. As a drummer, it can be frustrating to work with only percussion sounds. That’s why I created an augmented drum set that lets me play notes and compose full arrangements on my own.”

Following the workshop, the public was invited to a live cine-concert. Stéphane performed an original soundtrack live to Paris qui dort, the first film directed by René Clair. The silent film, set in a mysteriously frozen Paris, was brought to life with Stéphane’s modern score blending acoustic drumming, electronic loops, and improvisation – creating a magical and immersive experience.

Known for pushing musical boundaries, he used a drum kit enhanced with electronic triggers and custom interfaces to produce a rich, multi-layered performance. His score drew on minimal electro and jazz influences, showcasing both technical mastery and creativity.

He also highlighted his work with his 23-year-old band OZMA and collaborations with artists such as vocalist Lynn Adib and flutist Dramane Dembélé.

The event was supported by the Alliance Française. Director Gaël Corrignan emphasised the importance of community engagement: “This is about more than just French culture – it’s about Mitchell’s Plain. This space belongs to the community.”

The centre hosts regular activities like French classes, food distribution, and community markets, aiming to become a hub for cultural exchange and youth development.

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