As part of our Lunchtimes on the Square programme The Untold Orchestra presented the gorgeous tones of violinist Simmy Singh, who you may know as co-founder of the classical music innovators Manchester Collective.

Steel drummer ZOLATEC performed live with her unique blend of traditional and modern sounds, before The Two Stubborn Nigerians brought a live version of their knockout podcast to the Square. Known for their deep, funny and insightful commentary into Hip-hop, R&B, Afrobeats, Drill and all music of Black Origin, they offered the best in new music recommendations.

Manchester’s own hip-hop collective Motto Estate kicked off the party – the nine-strong outfit took the stage before Brighter Sound presented electronic duo GOMID and their shapeshifting, Afrofuturist sound.

Blending traditional Zulu music modern acapella and pop, we had vibrant and upbeat numbers from South Africa’s The Joy. Their live set was followed by a huge Piano in the City takeover from the Afro-Mancunian collective. Curated by Manchester’s own artist, DJ and producer extraordinaire Chunky, we had DJ sets from Artist Lebo, Masted Ced, Kwexi, Ms Dee, Terrie T, G2, Joe Shams, Toots, Soweto Boy and live PAs from 0710, EBII, Sho Sho and Squad 9, all hosted by Malume Nez.