Highlights of Watch-Africa 2022
We had a fantastic festival in 2022, going to 7 venues across Wales. From Q&A's to panel discussions and a range of workshops, the festival was packed with activities. And now it's time to look back and look at some of our highlights - Enjoy!
Balafon Music Workshop with N’famady Kouyaté
Date and Time:
Sun, 14 Oct 2018, 13:00
Tue, 30 Oct 2018, 15:30
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Location:
Chapter Arts Centre
Canton
Cardiff
CF5 1QE
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The balafon, an authentic and identifying instrument. The balafon is the ancient sacred instrument and symbol of peace and union in Africa. A memory of the spirits, ancestors, and the superior rank of the griots.
Come and listen to the stirring and caressing melodies of the balafon from Guinea, West Africa, and experience a hands-on taster session with a balafon master in partnership with Successors of the Mandingue.
During the session you will become familiar with this magical instrument and will learn some accompaniments to traditional Guinean songs and rhythms.
This is a family friendly workshop and for anyone from 10 yrs.
Instruments (Balafon) will be provided on the day.
About N'famady:
Descended from a long line of griots, N’famady Kouyaté is a balafonist, singer, percussionist, and founder of the group Les Héritier du Mandingue. He has performed with Guinean theater, ballet, percussion, and orchestral groups.
The balafon is sacred in Guinean culture and is traditionally played during ceremonial celebrations, carnivals, and community festivals. The first balafon was discovered by the King of Susu, Soumaoro Kanté (11th century of the Ancient African Empire), and it was given to the griot Bala Fassèké Kouyaté. The Kouyatés have been a significant family of storytellers for generations. N'famady is a direct descendant, and one of the stars of the succession of the Mandingue.
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