Ajate 
Concert

Formed in 2011, Ajate is a ten-member ensemble that seamlessly combines handcrafted bamboo instruments with traditional Japanese percussion. Departing from Ohayashi, traditional Japanese festival music, the group uses the instruments to interweave afro-groove dance rhythms. Among these instruments, all of which have been conceived by bandleader John Imaeda, is the jahte, a bamboo xylophone or balafon equipped with a piezo pick-up mic on each key, connected to a pre-amplifier. This setup infuses its warm and natural acoustic tones with a touch of gritty distortion. Additionally, the piechiku draws inspiration from West African ngoni and Moroccan guembri instruments, as well as the Japanese shamisen.

Ilê Aiyê 
Concert

Established in 1974 in the Liberdade neighbourhood of Salvador, Bahia, Ilê Aiyê is not only a cultural and social organization, but also a musical powerhouse, celebrated for its unique Afro-Brazilian rhythms and captivating performances. Originally conceived as a carnival group exclusively for Black individuals, it emerged as a response to the systemic racism that marginalized their participation in the city’s official carnival circuit. Drawing inspiration from the Black Power and Black Panther movements, Ilê Aiyê aimed to honour African heritage while confronting social injustice.

Central to Ilê Aiyê’s musical expression is the genre of samba-reggae, which emerged in the 1970s as a response to the cultural and social inequalities faced by Black communities in Salvador. Ilê Aiyê played a pivotal role in popularizing this genre with its unique style and empowering message. The group’s music is characterized by powerful beats, intricate percussion arrangements, and vocal harmonies, featuring Afro-Brazilian instruments such as atabaque drums, agogô bells, and berimbaus, which create a rich and dynamic sonic landscape. They also draw inspiration from styles such as samba de roda and candomblé rhythms, serving as a direct link to the musical traditions of West Africa, where many enslaved people brought their cultural practices to Brazil during the transatlantic slave trade. Lyrically, Ilê Aiyê’s songs celebrate African heritage, pride, and resilience, while also addressing social issues such as racism, inequality, and poverty.

Ilê Aiyê’s performances are renowned for their iconic blend of elaborate costumes, choreographed dances, and electrifying energy, captivating audiences both in Brazil and around the world. Evolving beyond its origins as a carnival group, Ilê Aiyê has emerged as a cultural institution and a symbol of Afro-Brazilian pride. The organization hosts a variety of cultural events, including music festivals, dance performances, and educational programs, all aimed at promoting Black culture and fostering a deep sense of cultural identity and unity within the community.