N'Djamena, 10.04.2026On the evening of the 10th of April 2026, I had the pleasure, at the invitation of the German ambassador, of performing a special “JZ & more” concert at his residence in N’Djamena together with the wonderful singer Yewande and the band of Chad Jazz Education.
In front of an international audience, including ambassadors from France, the EU, the United Kingdom, Turkey, and Morocco, the representative of the African Union’s permanent mission, artists, music lovers, and friends, we—together with the band of Chad Jazz Education at our side—brought musical moments to the stage that thrilled and enchanted the audience, as shown by their enthusiastic applause.
Hot impressions…
… during the oppressive midday heat of over 40°C – the soundcheck took place outdoors..
Well warmed up after hot rehearsals, we were then able to start the concert. I opened the evening with a solo performance of “Oblivion” by Piazzolla on the accordion. It literally transported the audience into a new world of sound that made them forget everyday life and immerse with the music. This was followed by a classical nocturne by Fauré. The first part reached its climax with an exhilarating version of Beethoven’s “Für Elise” in an old-time style arrangement by Ethan Uslan, which sparked the first wave of enthusiasm.
‘Für Elise’ as ragtime? That was absolutely amazing!
We dedicated the second part of the evening to jazz: together with the band of Chad Jazz Education, myself on accordion, and Yewande on vocals, we delighted the audience with pieces such as “Route 66,” “L-O-V-E,” and “For Sentimental Reasons” by Nat King Cole, as well as our interpretation of “Killing Me Softly.”
I was completely immersed in the music – it was marvellous!
The finale of the evening belonged to the “jazz classics made in Chad” and the band, with Madame Pulcherie enchanting the audience with her voice.
A very special thank-you to Yewande for the joint concert idea, to the German ambassador for the wonderful venue, and to Djim Radé and his Chad Jazz Education/ Ronel Jazz team.