Operanauts is proud to announce its collaboration with the Joy Quintet (Quintette de Joie), a group of five talented musicians who represent an inspiring cross-section of Kinshasa. The group is set to perform at the fête that Operanauts is producing in Ngaliema, Kinshasa on March 18.

The Joy Quintet’s members come from across Kinshasa’s various communes, sub-communities within the city that can be likened to the counties that make up US states. According to violinist Arnaude Falanka, bringing together five distinct communes to make music creates a strong sense of community.

“The music helps us to share moments together with others,” Falanka said, “to find peace instead of staying there watching all these calamities in our country.”

Other members of the quintet include violinist Galf Diasonama, violist Hervale Mayuma, cellist King Mbuangi and horn player Hervé Lele.

At the fête, the Joy Quintet will perform selections from “FANDANGO!,” a chamber opera featuring Mozart’s music arranged for the quintet and soloists by the music director of Operanauts Dr. Craig Levesque.