Sefo Kanuteh

Jaliyaa Kumbengo is a multi-layered evening of performance, learning & storytelling rooted in Mande musical tradition.

In Mandinka, “Jaliyaa” refers to the griot tradition — a living practice of music, oral history & cultural memory passed through generations — while “Kumbengo” means coming together. The name reflects both heritage & shared experience at the heart of the event.

The evening combines 3 elements:

• A FREE 1-hour interactive workshop (6.30pm–7.30pm) exploring kora, voice & collective improvisation. Open to all levels. Bring an instrument or join through voice. Free but booking required alongside a performance ticket.

• A pop-up photographic exhibition tracing Sefo’s musical lineage & journey

• A live performance (8.30pm) by a 5-piece West African ensemble blending traditional Mande music with contemporary influences

ARTISTS:

Sefo Kanuteh is a virtuoso kora & balafon player from Foday Kunda, The Gambia, raised within a multi-generational griot family where music functions as storytelling, social connection & collective memory. His work blends traditional Mande repertoire with contemporary influences.

He has collaborated with Baaba Maal & BKO Quintet, performing at festivals including WOMAD, Latitude & Glastonbury.

Jali Musa Jobarteh is a vocalist, kora player & multi-instrumentalist from the renowned Jobarteh griot lineage. He has performed widely across West Africa & internationally, both solo & with Mama Africa Band. Winner of Best Kora Musician (2021, Kora Festival, The Gambia).

Supported by Arts Council England
Produced by Music Worldwide & Gandaia Arts

Tickets: https://www.skiddle.com/e/42331216