Many people are familiar with Handel’s Messiah, an oratorio that has been performed and cherished worldwide since the 18th century, particularly for its iconic Hallelujah chorus. especially for its iconic Hallelujah. Yet where this monumental work is typically heard with large choirs and orchestras, BOI AKIH takes a surprisingly different approach.
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BOI AKIH plays Handel’s Messiah offers an idiosyncratic reinterpretation of Handel’s famous 1741 oratorio. When writing this work, Handel drew inspiration from the soloists and their expression. In 2026, BOI AKIH presents a fresh version with a unique instrumentation: seven-string classical guitar, viola, kora and voice. The combination of these distinctive string instruments creates a beautiful soundscape, on which Monica Akihary’s warm and flexible voice breathes new life into the classical texts.
Monica Akihary – vocals
Niels Brouwer – 7 string guitar
Sekou Dioubate – kora
Saskia Meijs – viola
