Serving up a heavenly cocktail of African music, audience participation is a must!
The music of CHOSANI AFRIQUE is catchy, soulful, energetic and powerful.
This live show is a feast for the senses - bright traditional african costumes and irresistibly danceable songs.
A captivating live band, CHOSANI AFRIQUE are the best party hosts in town.
THE BAND:
PAPE MBAYE
is the multi-instrumental percussionist, playing Djembe, Sabar, Balafon and Guitar.
Living and working in Australia since 1999 Pape has played in African Diaspora, Global Roots and Marsala, highlighting his versatility as a musician.
His original songs are based upon traditional proverbs and stories and many are sung in Wolof, his native language.
Pape has an undeniable ability to unlock all inhibitions, igniting the senses in his dynamic compositions and powerful delivery.
YACOU MBAYE
Has mastered the rhythms of the Sabar for as long as he has been walking on his own two feet!
Engrained in his heart is the pulse of the African Mbalax, which abounds with an undeniable energy and enthusiasm.
Yacou's talent is demonstrated on the Sabar, Djembe, Talking Drum and Duon Doun
Career Highlights include:
Senegalese dance troupe Gaaghi won the National Oscar de Vacance Dance Competition in 2006 & 2007.
Based in Sydney since 2007, Yacou is a member of CHOSANI AFRIQUE.
MOUSSA DIAKITE
Acclaimed guitarist hearkens the listeners ear to the traditional melodies of his Malian roots.
Moussa Diakite relocated internationally to join notable bands such as:
Les Ambassadeurs de Bouake,
Le Super International Band de La Ba Sosshe and others.
After crafting his skills and blending his experience, Moussa Returned to his homeland, Mali to join Super Rail Band, Kollyet ses accoytes (Hotel de l'Amite), and the Yanga from Modibo.
In early 1990's, world renowned musician Salif Keita recognised Diakite's talent and employed him as a valued member of his band.
Moussa Diakite is now established in Sydney Australia, and whilst playing in his own band; The Afro Jazz, is actively involved in CHOSANI AFRIQUE, as well as many other notable bands.
Diakite has performed at recognised festivals such as: Bellingen Global Roots, Kiama and Apollo Bay Festivals.
In 1998, he performed at the Sydney Opera House with Malian diva Oummou Sangare, for the Festival of Sydney.
SAM GOLDING
Multi-instrumentalist Sam Golding (trumpet, tenor horn, trombone, sousaphone, flutes, ukelele) performs in many musical settings from traditional music of the Balkans, jazz small groups, reggae and cabaret. As well as his brassy contributions to CHOSANI AFRIQUE, Sam is also currently working with the bands Darth Vegas, The Glorious Sousaphonics, The Fantastic Terrific Munkle, Teranga, Tango Saloon and The Mango Balloon.
JEAN GOMES
Delivers the hearty bass tones to the music of CHOSANI AFRIQUE.
Based in Sydney since 2002, Gomes adds a little salt to the musical recipe concocted in Chosani Afrique.
Tasty licks and grooves are the signature of Gomes' skills on electric bass.
Musicaviva also engages Gomes' musical talents in their interactive school-based programs.
Jean displays his skills on the Doun Douns, harvested from his traditional Senegalese roots.
THIASS MBAYE
As head drummer of his village, Thiass Mbaye is an extremely dedicated Sabar player. As a Griot, he is committed to keeping the oral traditions and cultural heritage associated with the traditional African drums.
This dedication enriches the performance of CHOSANI AFRIQUE, as the beat of the Sabar transports you through rhythms surrounding village rituals in Senegal.
SIBO BANGOURA
Sibo Bangoura, a passionate advocate for the music of his homeland is one of Australiaʼs leading West African percussionists. Born into a Griot (musicians) family in Conakry, Republic of Guinea, as a child he was surrounded by the traditions and magic of music - his mother a singer, his father a master Balafon player. Bangoura brings forth the steady, unwavering cadence of the Djembe to CHOSANI AFRIQUE.
In early 2010 Sibo held a principal role in the stage musical event ‘Rhythm Safari’ showing at two popular theatres in Sydney. Having worked on a variety of projects around Australia such as running drum and dance workshops, collaborating with Aboriginal performers and performing with Australian artists, Sibo has travelled extensively for performance and workshops including trips to New Caledonia, New Zealand, Fiji, Singapore, Japan, Korea, Indonesia and the Czech Republic.