West African Mande Music masterclass with Paul McElhatton

Open to everybody, regardless of music background. You only need an interest in music and rhythm in particular!

Admission: €15 for general public, €5 for students of The Jazz Lab ensembles.
No need for booking although you can reserve places by emailing [email protected] (particularly for groups of 5+)

‘Mande Music’ refers to music that encompasses modern day Mali and the Sahel countries of Guinea, Senegal and Cote d’Ivoire to name a few. Famed as the ‘cradle of musical civilisation’ according to multi award winning artist Toumani Diabate, the region is known for its’ diverse range of instrumentation and musical styles.

This masterclass will explore the development of various musical styles native to this part of Africa, which have had a massive influence on contemporary blues and jazz music. We will be breaking down some traditional and contemporary pieces for performance on Western instruments such as bass, guitar and drums, offering an insight into the feel of this music.

Paul McElhatton has been traveling to study in West Africa for over 15 years. He has studied traditional percussion in Mali, Gambia, Guinea and Senegal and Kamele n’goni harp in Burkina Faso., and in the School of Oriental studies (SOAS), University of London. He is the Founder of Afro-Eire and Manden Express.

Where: Griffith College Dublin

More info: https://www.facebook.com/events/530168730493576/