Malifoli: Traditional Rhythms of Mali & Guinea | An Evening of West African Drumming
Sat, Aug 22
|Riverstage at Herter Park
OPENING PERFORMANCE: • Performance by Moussa Traoré's student ensemble • Traditional West African rhythms learned through Moussa's community classes • Celebration of student dedication and cultural preservation. FEATURED PERFORMANCE: • Malifoli • Traditional rhythms from Mali and Guinea
Time & Location
Aug 22, 2026, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Riverstage at Herter Park, 1175 Soldiers Fld Rd, Boston, MA 02134, USA
Guests
About the event
FEATURED ARTISTS:
Moussa Traoré
Born and raised in Bamako, Mali, Moussa Traoré has been playing the djembe for more than 40 years. After completing a rigorous 12-year apprenticeship under his teacher, Sega Cissé, he was recognized as a master drummer in 1984. Today, Traoré is regarded as one of Mali's premier djembefolas, known for his work in traditional ceremonies, ballet performances, theater productions, and the African popular music scene.
An internationally acclaimed performer, composer, and educator, Traoré has inspired audiences throughout the United States, Europe, and China. His performances blend the depth of traditional Malian rhythms with elements of jazz improvisation, Latin influences, and his own distinctive artistic vision. As an Associate Professor at Berklee College of Music, he also teaches at Harvard University, Brown University, Roger Williams University, Wheaton College, and other institutions while leading community classes, workshops, and performances around the world.