September brought an unforgettable weekend of West African drumming with Sekouba Oulare. From performing at Music Worldwide Drum Camp to hosting almost sold-out workshops at Drumroots in Manchester, it was an experience full of music, learning and great memories.
The journey began before Sekouba arrived, as we studied his rhythms and arrangements with Jeremy from Djembe-AWA. At Drum Camp, we supported Sekouba’s workshops and squeezed in some rehearsals before the big performance.
A real highlight was performing alongside two incredible master drummers: Sekouba Oulare and our long-standing teacher, Iya Sako. We honoured both masters by playing rhythms from their respective regions of Guinea: Faranah and Wassolon.
Sharing the stage with both of these musicians was a special experience and a real privilege.
A huge thank you goes to all the Tanante drummers who supported the weekend, playing dunduns, djembe accompaniment, bass parts and more. Some of the material was seriously challenging! Their hard work and commitment helped make the workshops and performance possible.
Back in Manchester, our workshops with Sekouba went brilliantly, with almost all tickets sold out and a packed venue. The rhythms certainly challenged everyone, but that was part of the excitement of learning directly from such an experienced master drummer.
Saturday brought another surprise when our Tanante dancers Jokeh Silla and Amie Jarju joined us. This led to an impromptu Tanante performance at the end of the workshop, rounding off the session beautifully.
There were memorable moments away from the workshops, too. We enjoyed informal jams with Sekouba in the Drumroots studio and gathered at home with the Tanante crew after Saturday’s session.
Our dancer Jokeh prepared a fantastic spread of African food, including so much delicious peanut stew that we were still enjoying the leftovers on Sunday!
A massive thank you to Sekouba, Jeremy, Jokeh, all the Tanante drummers and dancers, and everyone who joined us and helped make the weekend so special.
It was a privilege to share these rhythms, learn together and spend time making music with such inspiring people.
And the good news? We’re already in talks about bringing Sekouba back to Manchester in 2027! Nothing is confirmed just yet, but we’re hopeful we can welcome him back for more traditional West African drumming, workshops and performances.
For now, enjoy a few of our favourite photos from an unforgettable September!
