SOUNDCHECK
SOUNDCHECK at Phoenix Art Museum is a new live music series. Every third Thursday from 5-8 pm, we're bringing popular local and regional acts to the Museum for raw, unmissable performances.
Tickets are included with general admission. You can also pre-purchase a discounted $10 drink ticket toward your choice of spirit or wine at the bar. This option is available only for individuals 21+. IDs will be checked on-site.
January 15th 2026
Dorrance Sculpture Garden
Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra
ABOUT PHOENIX AFROBEAT ORCHESTRA
PHOENIX AFROBEAT ORCHESTRA [PAO!] proudly carries the musical and social torch that was first lit by the powerful duo of FELA KUTI and TONY ALLEN, original inventors of the Afrobeat sound in Lagos, Nigeria in West Africa. Led by funky heiress Camille Sledge the 16-strong orchestra is composed of the most ambitious and outrageous musicians in Phoenix today – making it the hottest super-group on the Hot City scene!
Beginning with a strict repertoire comprised of classic Afrobeat music, PAO! has now penned an abundance of original material that melds the eclectic heritage of the ensemble with that classic Afrobeat style. The outcome is a truly powerful sound that pays homage to the masters while maintaining a fierce individuality, acting as a loud voice-piece of solidarity and understanding for the global community. In 2023, the band will find themselves releasing and supporting their 3rd studio record "The Times" as well as more new music that has been crafted during this time of prolific societal unrest.
From concert hall to music festival, fashion show to fundraiser, PAO! has shared the stage with such musical icons as George Clinton and The Roots, as well as lesser-known masters including Bombino, Vieux Farka Touré, Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars, Orgone, Dengue Fever, Turkuaz, Sudan Archives, The Dip, and Los Esplifs.
SOUNDCHECK is made possible through the generosity of Presenting Sponsor Men’s Arts Council, with additional support from Desert Financial Credit Union.