Mali’s rising star Suaré Virginie Dembele bridges traditional local music with modern intensity and feminist messages. Expect an empowering and captivating live performance when this talented singer and ngoni player takes the stage at ALICE this spring with her accomplished band. The concert is presented in collaboration with TEMPI and the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus.

Despite her young age, Suaré Virginie Dembele has already made a significant mark on Mali’s music scene. Rooted deeply in her culture, with a voice that is both powerful and brimming with fiery, visionary messages, she breaks barriers as a female instrumentalist in a country where gender roles have traditionally been restrictive. Through her music, Suaré Virginie Dembele challenges norms and breathes new life into old traditions with a creative and courageous approach. This has made her one of Mali’s most important voices, resonating both locally and far beyond its borders.

Suaré Virginie Dembele is a graduate of the prestigious Fondation Passerelle, founded by the iconic Rokia Traoré, and from the outset, she has pursued her vision of forging her own path and building a professional music career. With a background in church choirs and various bands, she has developed a solid foundation and now leads her own orchestra of highly skilled musicians. At the forefront, she commands the stage with her exceptional vocals and the ngoni, a traditional string instrument. Suaré Virginie Dembele won the Spot on Mali competition in 2024, and as part of this recognition, she will perform two concerts in Denmark this spring. We are proud to present Suaré Virginie Dembele at ALICE, where she and her band will deliver a powerful and engaging live show. The concert is presented in collaboration with TEMPI and the Royal Academy of Music in Aarhus.