Cleveland International Film Festival } March 30 – April 10, 2022

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TOPOWA! - Never Give Up

Year: 2019
Country: UNITED KINGDOM
Run Time: 82 minutes

Around the slums of Katwe, Uganda some unlikely sounds fill the air: those of tubas, trumpets, trombones, and brass drum sets. This is all thanks to Brass for Africa, a UK based nonprofit (98% African-led) that brings brass music to disadvantaged children throughout the continent, creating safe spaces where kids can learn to play, practice their instruments, and dream big. This amazing organization encourages student musicians to become teachers and to continue spreading the love of music throughout their communities. An enchanting and inspiring documentary, TOPOWA! - NEVER GIVE UP follows 12 of these young teacher-musicians on their incredible journey from the streets of Katwe to play a live concert in London alongside renowned trumpet player Wynton Marsalis. A popular phrase in Uganda, Topowa means to never give up, and the essence of this phrase is embodied by each member of the band. The unbound joy these musicians exude as they play or even talk about music is absolutely infectious. Optimistic and uplifting, this magical film will leave you smiling from ear to ear. (In English and Luganda with subtitles) — G.S.