Multiple instruments, languages, and countries define Okavango African Orchestra. The Juno Award-winning group Okavango African Orchestra is an ambitious musical ensemble created by Batuki Music Society, Artistic Director Nadine McNulty assembled a cast of accomplished African-born musicians who now live in Toronto and Montreal.

The orchestra takes its name from the Okavango Delta, a basin in the Kalahari Desert in Botswana, where many different animal species come together to feed and find water. Predators and prey are forced to coexist and share the meager resources because of the harsh environment around them. Similarly, Okavango: An African Orchestra brings together the traditional music and instruments of several major African cultures that historically have had little or no interaction. The musicians of Okavango have created a common meeting place for these disparate cultures, and a new musical language that harmonizes their different tuning systems, rhythms, and timbres. The musicians and instruments of Okavango represent a continuum of traditions and cultures from time immemorial to the present day. The multicultural spirit of modern-day Canada bridges ancient African solitudes.

Wood Terrace

Spend your night with us under the stars! Access our terrace directly from Elgin Street, the canal, or the Mackenzie King Bridge and take in the best free beats offered in Ottawa this summer.

Limited seating available. Please bring a chair to enjoy an evening of music and entertainment.