Ankata Niogonfe: Let’s Go Together

Join Hakili Koura, a Mandé music and dance ensemble, for a workshop centered around dance and music. The dance segment, led by renowned Senegalese dancer Aissatou Diop (Aida) will include movements found in the region, and the music segment led by musician, composer and leader of Balimaya Project, Yahael Camara Onono will delve into the history of Mandé traditional instruments and the role of music in society. Participants will have the opportunity to learn a traditional song supported by the band members of Hakili Koura.

Yahael Camara Onono

Yahael is the celebrated band leader of Balimaya Project, an award winning band based in London who are fast building themselves a well known name for their unique approach to music and composition, including a performance at The Arts Center in 2023. He has also made himself known as a component of the London jazz scene and beyond. Born in Harlesden, North West London of Nigerian and Senegalese heritage, Yahael grew up surrounded by traditional and contemporary forms of West African and African diasporic music first playing the djembe at the age of 8, it’s been his medium to explore music identity and the articulation and evolution of both  ever since. 

Writing, composing, and recording for the likes of Yussef Dayes, Amaarae, and Davido among others, Yahael’s unique and virtuosic playing earned him a spot as the prestigious Barbican and Guildhall School of Music’s artist in residence for the year. He is, historically, the first contemporary artist to hold the position. Balimaya Project has also gone from strength to strength, collaborating with brands and other well established musicians, and recording/releasing 2 studio albums in 3 years. Both made album of the year charts in prestigious lists such as that of The Guardian, and the first album made the groups of the Songlines Magazine Newcomer of the Year award.