Sabar, Polyrhythm, and the Politics of Body Movement

Following the well-attended Sabar workshops in 2024, Haus der Kulturen der Welt (HKW) continues the drum and dance workshop series Sabar, Polyrhythm, and the Politics of Body Movement led by Nago Guèye Koité & SAF SAP. 

Originating from Senegalese shores, sabar is a sonic language that was born out of the coastal oral traditions of Wolof, Lébou, and Sérère communities. The term comes from the Wolof language, designating the single drum instrument as well as its ensemble, the drumming style, its sensual dancing, and the popular celebration which often takes place in the context of important social events such as naming ceremonies, weddings, and rituals of initiations, among others.

Very much practised in griot families, drumming and sabar are traditions that constitute a pillar in Senegalese oral history. Also known as a storyteller, the figure of the griot occupies an important role in society: messenger, mediator, counselor, organizer. Traditionally, sabar gatherings were planned and organized by the griot in close collaboration with male drummers who held the knowledge of activating the drums’ sonicity; women who could work on the social aspect of the gathering and take care of clothing arrangements; and younger people, who were often more active when it comes to spatial organization, lending a helping hand. Also known as a spiritual practice, sabar has been used in healing ceremonies, using the drums as a connector to higher spirits. Accordingly, the sabar never occurs before the mandatory baak call that greets the ancestors.

The ceremony takes place in a circle starting with a set of six, twelve, or twenty-four drums. The sounds circulate from each vibrating drum through each person present in the circle. Although the dancing portion of the sabar starts from the individual who is at the centre of the circle, the general choreography grows through collective movements between duos, trios, and more. The polyphony provided by the collective drumming aims to align the body with the rhythm of the drums, fostering a strong conversation with the beats offered. Visually, the dancing can appear to follow the rhythm, however the intention is to have various  sonic rendez-vous that are directed by the lead drummer. 

The etymology of the word ‘sabar’ derives from the Wolof word ‘sabal’ that refers to a bird call or song. Echoing this root, the sonic calls of the sabar encompass a mix of staccato, glissando, vibrato, whistling, and warbling bird songs, among others. As the sabar dancing gets activated by the drumming, its movements resemble those of a rapid walking bird, creating an array of frenetic and sometimes sensual body expressions.

Bringing sabar traditions to HKW contributes to the Politics of Rhythm project initially established at the house with the Bullerengue workshops in June 2023. It sustains the aim of HKW to welcome technological modes of collective movement as practices of togetherness and body liberation.