In 2010, a German documentary brought international attention to the group, as well as bringing additional funding and support. Called "Kinshasa Symphony," the film captured the musicians' remarkable musical talent and resilient spirit in the face of daily challenges.

"The passion is there and that has allowed us to go above the difficulties," says Diangienda. "The symphony orchestra has brought us a form of discipline, something new that allows each one of us to bring a contribution in what we were doing."

Every now and then the orchestra holds free concerts in Kinshasa, aimed at inspiring a new generation of musicians and enabling more people to discover the work of classical composers.

"Up to now, this style of music is still foreign to people here," explains Diangienda. "Some people feel it's Western music but we say it's not -- it's an expression for us of our own culture."

Diangienda says that another reason for the concerts is to show people in the DRC that music can be appreciated in a different way from the one they're used to.

"Here in our country, music is listened to so that you can dance," he explains. "It is very rare that it is listened to just for meditation but I think classical music takes you really far.

"It allows you to meditate and express certain things that you might not be able to express with other style of music."

Ultimately, Diangienda says his biggest dream is to create a music school that will enable local musicians to export the country's rich culture through classical music.

"I believe that kids growing up with this music and their Congolese culture will be able to express themselves better than us tomorrow," he says.

"They'll do symphonies or sonatas which will be classical but completely African. That is my biggest dream, to create a music school where kids will learn how to play instruments and adults will be able to learn as well."