“Bamako may be Sophie’s debut album, but it’s the kind of record many more established artists could only dream of releasing. The song-craft, the lyricism, the virtuosity, the variety, the beauty of the vocals – every aspect is exquisite.” – Roots Music

An award-winning Hungarian kora player who learned from the masters in Mali is coming to Liverpool for a free concert this Wednesday at 1:00pm. Sophie Lukacs has brought her music to stages across North America, Europe, and Africa. This April, she comes to Liverpool for a free lunchtime concert presented by Africa Oyé and The Tung Auditorium—another special event in the two organisations’ ongoing partnership.

On Wednesday 15th April 2026, Liverpool will get to witness a soothing showcase as Lukacs weaves together four languages – English, French, Hungarian, and Bambara – accompanied by cello and percussion, creating something entirely new while honouring ancient traditions. Budapest-born and Montreal-based, Lukacs spent seven years studying the 21-string kora in Mali with masters including Grammy winner Toumani Diabaté, later collaborating with the renowned Habib Koité. Her debut album Bamako earned Global Roots Album of the Year at the 2024 Canadian Folk Music Awards.

Singing in four languages—English, French, Hungarian, and Bambara—and accompanied by kora, percussion, and guitar, Lukacs weaves Mandingue musical traditions together with her classical violin training and Hungarian folk roots to create something entirely her own. Sophie Lukacs performs on Wednesday 15th April 2026 at The Tung Auditorium, located in the Yoko Ono Lennon Centre, Liverpool. Tickets are free and available now via the venue’s website.