Two of the best drummers in the world are coming to Victoria.
Weedie Braimah and Amadou Kouyate will be joined by Victoria’s own Oliver Swain for a percussion explosion on March 4, Masters of Rhythm, at Philip T. Young Recital Hall at UVic. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m.
While everyone can pound a drum, very few are masters.
Weedie Braimah is one such master. Born in Ghana, Braimah began his career at the ripe old age of two. He has spent his life on the long quest for mastery and excellence. Braimah has a musical legacy on both sides of his family.
His African Music Ensemble, with 32 members will play some African music as well. The show will also include Amadou Kouyate, another early musical aficionado.
He began learning djembe and koutiro drumming at the age of three. Born in Washington, DC. Kouyate has dedicated his life to the task of becoming an ambassador of African culture to the world. His repertoire ranges demo traditional songs from the 13th century to contemporary original compositions incorporating blues and jazz riffs. For the last 150 generations, the Kouyate family, from Senegal, has been keeping the knowledge and drumming legacy going. He is preserving his African culture while pursuing new musical journeys. He performs with Nth Power, Sarky Puppy and Trombone Shorty.
Oliver Swain is no stranger to Victoria. He is the quintessential folk and traditional musician. His musical career includes; his current band BIg Machine, Outlaw Social, The Bill Hilly Band, Scruj MacDuhk, Moody, Penner and Swain, the Red Stick Ramblers along with performing with scores of musicians.
”Oliver is going to be such an amazing fit,” said Hanson. “Oliver is such a good musician.”
The idea to include Swain with the African drummers was because the banjo, which Swain plays, has its roots in Africa.
“We thought it would be cool, a banjo playing ancient African and Appalachian music. He’s jammed and we’re thrilled.”
Tickets for the Master of Rhythm are available at Lyle’s Place (770 Yates St.) or on-line at www.drumvictoria.com