Jaliyaa Kumbengo & Tanante

Jaliyaa Kumbengo is a live performance and participatory programme bringing together Gambian Griot masters Sefo Kanuteh and his band Meriya, and joined by acclaimed Gambian vocalist Binta Suso, for a unique evening of cultural exchange. Jaliyaa Kumbengo will be supported by tradtional drum and dance troup Tanante.

The programme combines:

• A Free interactive workshop (5.30pm-6.30pm) exploring kora, voice and collective improvisation (open to all levels). Participants are welcome to bring any percussion or melody instrument, or simply join through voice and singing. The workshop is optional but a ticket must be reserved to confirm a place.
• A pop-up photgraphic exhibition tracing Sefo's musical linage and journey.
• A dynamic performance from 7.30pm-8.15pm by traditional West African drum and dance troupe TANANTE
• A performance by 5 peice group Jaliyaa Kumbengo from 8.45pm-10.15pm
• DJ music between acts and after performances end.

About Jaliyaa Kumbengo.

In Mandinka 'Jaliyaa' refers to griot tradition - a living practise of music, oral history & cultural memory passed through generations - while 'Kumbengo' translates as coming together or gathering. Together, the title reflects both heritage and shared experience at the heart of the programme.

Artists:

Sefo Kanuteh is a virtuosic kora and balafon player from Foday Kunda in The Gambia raised within a multi-genrational griot family where music functions as storytelling, social connection and collective memory.

Sefo has collaborated and performed with leading international artists including Baaba Maal & The BKO Quintet.

Binta Suso is a Gambian vocalist from a respected Griot family lineage, known for her expressive voice and deep connection to Mandinka musical tradtitions. She has collaborated internationally within West African and contemporary fusion projects, performing alongside renowned kora artists connected to the Suso and Keita griot families.

Meriya Band brings together a collective of musicians supporting Sefo's sound, blending tradtional West African arrangments with contemporary arrangements to create a dynamic live experience.

This programme is supported with funding by Arts Council England. Tour management provided By Music Worldwide.

For more information about Sefo visit www.sefokanuteh.com

For information about Tanante visit www.drumroots.org.uk