A FUSION of sounds from across the globe rocked across Southampton when world music acts took to the stage.

Visitors to the Guildhall Square heard a myriad of beats and music from three continents when Global Rhythms was held in the city centre yesterday.

Southampton-based culture organisation Art Asia arranged for five bands to play throughout the afternoon as part of Nuffield Theatre’s Art at the Heart festival.

Vinod Desai, founder and chief executive of Art Asia said there was a “whole mixture of music” for people to hear.

He said: “I’m very proud that we have got some emerging artists and they’re creating new music. They’ve all been inspired by international artists that are performing still.”

Daily Echo:

Musicians including Mehboob Nadeem on sitar entertain the crowd at Global Rhythms in Guildhall Square

Indian classical vibes began the afternoon when tabla drummer Sanju Sahai and sitar player Mehboob Nadeem were accompanied by Southampton singer Pooja Angra.

Panjazz International steel band from Portchester then brought the Caribbean sunshine to the grey skies.

Four Southampton-based musicians played traditional Afghanistani music before Sunny UK finished off the afternoon with some Bangra beats.

Daily Echo:

Audience members enjoy the music at Global Rhythms

Vinod added: “After the successful mela in July we continue to bring people in contact with world culture in the city.”

The outdoor Art at the Heart festival sees a range of events from theatre to music to art in the city centre until August 17.