More about the workshop:
VERSÃO EM PORTUGUÊS
In colonial Brazil, thousands of Africans from different peoples were captured and taken as enslaved people to Pernambuco, former Duarte Coelho Pereira Province, and over time hundreds of African houses of worship were born, as well as indigenous influences, which is Jurema Sagrada.
Jurema is a tree that serves as food, medicine, and is an indigenous ancestral cult of northeastern Brazil. In this way, we perceive that the study, knowledge, and appreciation of this practice contribute and legitimise the fight for an education for and for diversity, recognising ancestral knowledge also as a way of knowing our histories and cultures.
In this session participants will explore:
– the traditional knowledge linked to Jurema Sagrada
– elements of African and indigenous cultures in the cultural contexts of the city and region
– the fight for the recognition of ancestral knowledge
What to expect from the session
This workshop is most suitable for music enthusiasts who already have some experience of percussion or voice-based practice.
The experience will begin with a brief historical context. There will be a screening of a video documentary ‘As Yalorixas do Recife’ that tells the story of strong women who care for the Orisha and the persecution of African houses of worship followed by a lecture and debate on the video (with translation assistance from the team).
Instrumentation: Ilù and other hand drums, Agogô, Agbê, and songs.
Ilù: Yoruba name for a drum that in Pernambuco was rebuilt with barrels of wine that the coloniser threw away;
Agogô: Iron bell that initiates rhythms;
Agbê: Instrument made of gourd and beads responsible for rhythmic filling-in.
Songs in Yoruba and Portuguese of traditional Yoruba and Jurema Sagrada songs.
Who is Guga Santos?
Guga is a percussionist, singer, dancer, music teacher, luthier, plastic artist, and contra master of Capoeira Angola. He is a complete artist, with a deep commitment to honouring and valuing our cultural roots.
He has been influenced and trained by great masters of art and popular culture from Pernambuco, such as: Mestre Sapo in capoeira Angola, Mestra Iza do Amparo in plastic arts and Mestre Salustiano in popular cultural forms such as Cavalo Marinho, Ciranda, Côco, Forró and Maracatu Rural. Guga brings with him a musical knowledge enriched by the traditions and knowledge transmitted by these great masters. His passion for percussion is evident in his artistry, where he takes us on an engaging, pulsating rhythmic journey.
In addition to his talent as a percussionist, Guga is also an accomplished singer and dancer, incorporating these artistic expressions to create authentic and emotional performances. He intertwines melodies, rhythms and movements in a harmonious way, connecting deeply with his origins and traditions. His talent transcends borders, inspiring students and audiences around the globe.
Not only a talented musician and dancer, Guga is also a skilled luthier, making three different instruments. His specialty is the manufacture of Agbê, an instrument that has gained great popularity and is often sought after by music lovers.
Guga is a contra mestre of Capoeira Angola, a Brazilian cultural manifestation that integrates dance, mime, fight and ancestry in a unique and cohesive way. He is dedicated to preserving and promoting this rich tradition, bringing to light its values and meanings.
We are so pleased he could join us here in Manchester to give us this very special gift.
Time:
1pm-5pm (arrive 12:30pm)
Venue:
The Vale (theatre space),
Unit 2 Vale Mill, Micklehurst Road, Mossley, OL5 9JL
Access:
If you have any access requirements to be able to attend, please complete the form at the base of this page, or let us know via email or phone ([email protected] / 01618706895).
