“Here comes Project Locrea, eight musicians, who are all very accomplished in bringing the essence of their various cultures to the table. This collective could produce a great album.....I'm all ears” Songlines.
Project Locrea's debut album brings together Washington DC based musicians from different cultural and musical backgrounds to perform new music, inspired by their traditions and the music that surrounds them today. Their music infuses traditional song and instruments with modern arrangements and original compositions.
Founded and led by Bulgarian flute player Yana Nikol the project has been a labor of love. The name "Locrea" combines "love" and "creativity", two concepts which Nikol considers essential to life. Locrea's musical collective is born from respect for each other, their diverse traditions and the joy of sharing their global sound.
The band represents a message of the unity between all humans, celebrating what makes us different, rather than have it be a source of division. Featuring musicians from Latin America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, Project Locrea embody their message of unity, delighting audiences with an ever-changing musical landscape.
During their short time together Project Locrea has toured in China and in the mid-Atlantic region of the USA. Defying categorization they have performed at DC's legendary jazz club Blues Alley, as well as in folk and classical settings; on large festival stages and club stages.
Yana Nikol’s Natural Compromisation was awarded “Best Composition” at the Mid-Atlantic song contest in 2022. Project Locrea are finalists for the mid-Atlantic regions WAMMIE award in the “Best World Music Band” category.
“Project Locrea aim to be a truly global band by bringing together the instruments and styles of multiple nations, to send a message of global inclusiveness and combat the increasingly insular and nationalistic nature of the world”. Chris Griffy, No Depression
“The highly talented musicians of Project Locrea open a compelling window on the music of the world.” Betty Scott, Director, Strathmore Artist in Residence Program
“You’ve got to hear this stunning music, and experience the thrill of Locrea’s boundary-breaking improvisation, I. E. brilliant young musicians tickling each other’s minds with sound.” Susan Benesch, Casa Phoenix Concert Series Director
