The Senegalese griot performs alongside his prominent Venezuelan counterpart, as they intertwine the sounds of their respective harps.
Kadialy Kouyate & Leonard Jacome
Kadialy Kouyate and Leonard Jacome first met in 2008 in Paraguay at the 2nd international harp festival as they were both representing their respective countries; Senegal and Venezuela. The duet went to have a studio session of two songs that were featured in Leonard's first album in 2009 entitled "Empirico". Five years later, the two musicians got the chance to meet again in London and decided to tighten up their musical bond. Their album Rhythms of the Atlantic was recorded live on a Thursday night in November 2013 in London.
Leonard Jacome is one of the most prominent Venezuelan harpists know as a composer, producer and arranger. With an artistic career spanning 30 years, he has often been commissioned to work for Symphony Orchestras and Big Band Jazz. He is the creator of the Venezuelan electric harp in collaboration with Camac-Harps of France.
Now based in Miami, Florida, he continues to perfect his own style and reinvent himself by adopting new techniques, styles and musical phrases, in order to make the most from his instrument. This way he is seen as an ambassador for the development of the contemporary identity of the Venezuelan Harp.
Across the Atlantic, Kadialy Kouyate was born into the great line of Kouyate Griot in Southern Senegal. His kora playing and singing style, both as a soloist and in different ensembles, have been appreciated in many prestigious venues including the Royal Festival Hall, the 02 Arena, the National Theatre, and the Royal Albert Hall. Kadialy has also played at venues and festivals across the world, touring Europe, Australia, North and South America and Asia.
Since his arrival in the UK, Kadialy has played a significant part in enriching the London musical scene with his griot legacy. Kadialy has taught the kora at SOAS, University of London, for the last decade and he has also been involved in countless musical projects both as a collaborator and a session musician.
Kadialy has released several albums and makes regular radio and television appearances.
“A great, unique-sounding album.” Songlines
“Senegalese kora virtuoso/singer Kadialy Kouyate showcases his fleet-fingered skills on this mesmerizing instrument, complementing it with his hauntingly, darkly beautiful voice.” -Time Out London.
“Kadialy Kouyate’s kora playing soothes the soul with its beautiful melodies and deep messages from the griot tradition of West Africa”- Nicky Crew – Penny Black Music.
Both artists will give solo performances to start the evening, before their joint set forms the headline act.
PLEASE NOTE that this is an outdoor event which will go ahead regardless of the weather. Please bring appropriate clothing including waterproofs if rain is forecast.