Zaouli Dance from Ivory Coast

The Zaouli Rhythm is one of the most incredible beats from West Africa. Sometimes compared to the movements of a bird, performers wear colorful wooden masks and raffia skirts that swirl dramatically as their feet move at incredible speeds while their upper bodies remain surprisingly still. What makes this dance special is the powerful drumming that guides every movement - a mix of djembe, bass drums and krin that fit together like a perfect puzzle. Drummers and dancers speak to each other through rhythm, creating an exciting conversation you can feel in your body. I learned short phrases taught by Mamady Keita that go with the dance steps. They are easy to learn and fun to play!

The first video has a techno beat overdubbed (not the original audio/rhythm).