The balafon, an instrument for better listening

For Adama Daou, the balafon is much more than an instrument. Originally from West Africa where it would have appeared in the 12th century, the in-depth knowledge of this pentatonic idiophone with 12 blades was transmitted to him by the Ancients. On the strength of this heritage, Adama encourages encounters that are both rich and unique, regardless of the context in which it is presented. In a language that is simple, practical and evocative, this artist weaves links that go far beyond music. His talent as a teacher and mediator reveals the singular aesthetic and human experience to which the balafon leads.

Biography

Musician of Malian origin, Adama Daou has developed his practice of African percussion (djembe, dumdum, calabash and balafon) since childhood, when he participated in traditional ceremonies. Along with tours in Europe, Canada and the United States, Adama regularly leads courses and workshops in percussion and African dances. With training in leisure activities for young people, he also works regularly as a monitor in schools and a socio-cultural worker with young offenders. Based in Montreal since 2011, Adama Daou is constantly guided by a strong desire to introduce the public to Malian percussion, by creating musical projects with artists from different backgrounds, by developing percussion training.