" data-original-title="" title="">Bart Platteau, on a flight with the Matsiko World Orphan Choir, a group of orphaned and at-risk children from the war-ravaged country of Liberia.

A chance came, and Amina Figarova took it. The result is that the pianist's sextet was joined by the glorious 24- piece choir on her 16-minute "Suite For Africa," in addition to five of her intricately arranged instrumental tunes.

In 2022 Figarova released a terrific album entitled Joy (Amfi Records). The title, one small word, captures her artistry. That is unchanged in Suite For Africa. Opening with "Dancing Clouds"—an aptly titled sextet tune—allows the leader to display her light, probing touch. Her arrangements for the band are exquisite. With the exception of flautist Platteau, the ensemble has changed over the years, and Figarova said of an earlier version of her septet—2009's September Suite ensemble—that: "I am just the person who writes the notes," crediting her mates with bringing her music to life. They deserve the credit; every solo on every album she has released brims with inspiration, featuring a spaciousness sitting beside a lively small combo orchestral vibe. But that person who writes the notes and assembles the band and arranges the music—this often majestic and unfailingly gorgeous tapestry—deserves all the kudos that come her way.

The "Suite For Africa, Parts 1 through 3"—"Spirit Africa, Spirit Liberia," "Fifteen As One" and "Forgotten Children"— feature the 24-voice choir. The joy and innocence, the youthful exuberance and the obvious zest for the task at hand are up front, bubbling with an embrace of life, despite the less-than-optimum life circumstances. Combined with Figarova's sextet and the adventuresome playing all around, the music exhibits a joyous and spellbinding listening experience.

No less important are instrumental numbers. Over a long career, Figarova has proved herself a top-level jazz arranger. Suite For Africa sounds somewhat like a pared-down version of trombonist