Studying music and dance in Guinea with Bolokada is like getting a tour of the White House from president Obama himself!

Bolokada is Guinea’s Godfather of Malinke music and folklore! In Guinea, people greeted him like the grand King that he is. In every village, Bolokada put people into a frenzy wherever we traveled! The sheer love and respect that he commands is extended by the oodles to all of his guests.

This December, I’ll be taking my second trip to Guinea with Bolokada!! He invites Djembefolas, Drummers, Performers, Educators, Dancers, Students and Professionals to train live in the Malinke Djembe music that bedazzles our lives. He invites us to learn in the lap of the people who have preserved Guinea’s epic culture and folklore.

Bolokada has organized two trips, in December 2014 and January 2015! We will join his company, family, and friends for the learning intensive that will enthrall you for years and years! We will be studying non-stop with Bolokada – and his electrifying dance partner – Ibrahima Soumah, director for Ballet Soleil D’Afrique! We will be immersing ourselves in the city and village culture; the sounds, senses, activities and conversations of Guinea!

This trip has reached deep into my heart,  giving me eternal inspiration.

Some people may ask, ‘well why travel alllll the way to Africa to learn?’… The importance of actually being in Guinea can not be overstated.

Here’s what I loved most about training and touring in Guinea with Bolokada:

Bolokada’s workshops: We learn right inside Bolokada’s house, which makes each class a very personal  and intense experience; As we train with Bolokada, we get to interact with his friends and family, and a number of his special visitors from Koungbana to his star Djembefola brother Fakoli

Working with Bolokada’s company: His band of musicians are just the most brilliant perfectionist and adventure buddies. Between Bolokada and his company, we learn so much about traditional Malinke rhythms and arrangements… They won’t let you slack either; Surrounded by musical excellence, you grow by kicks and strides

Bolokada’s villages: Traveling to Bolokada’s home village was simply beautiful -- the natural landscape, the clean and spacious huts, and the village people and escapades are forever in my heart

Live Djembefola ceremonies: Because Bolokada is still a leading Djembefola in the villages of Guinea, we got to participate in real cultural ceremonies, weddings and parties, and partake in the culture as artists and participants, not tourists

Faranah: We stayed in the compound of the late great Fadouba Oulare and his family in Faranah; His sons watched over us with love and affection; and Fadouba’s son Sekouba taught perhaps some of the greatest Djembe classes of all time. This slice of living history gave me happy chills

Bolokada’s wife’s cooking. One word: ‘deeeeelicious!’ No, two words: ‘More, please!’

Dancing with Ibrahima: I see why Ibrahima’s company Ballet Soleil has won many awards! Ibrahima is one of the world’s top dancers; his passion and skills are immediately transferred as he shares Guinea dance with sheer grace, strength, articulation, and power!

There are many more reasons why I'm going to Guinea again, and with Bolokada! As we unite on this journey together, I am happy to share this experience with you!

To learn more about Bolokada's Guinea trip, please reach me or visit www.Trip2Guinea.com