With synchronized movements and dazzling technique, percussionists from China and Senegal brought diverse drum pieces to life in a captivating cross-cultural performance titled “Drums and Music in Harmony” held in Dakar, the capital of Senegal.
Hosted on Thursday evening at the Grand National Theater Doudou Ndiaye Coumba Rose, the event drew nearly 1,000 spectators eager to witness the unique collaboration between Chinese and Senegalese artists.
“This is more than a musical performance. It’s a spiritual exchange,” said Yin Fei, associate professor at China’s Central Conservatory of Music.
Yin led a nine-member percussion ensemble on a cultural tour to Senegal, where they collaborated directly with the celebrated Doudou Ndiaye Rose Percussion Ensemble.
Blending the dynamic sounds of Chinese lion dance drumming and Senegalese sabar drumming, the two ensembles showcased their distinct styles while discovering common rhythmic and emotional ground. The performance highlighted percussion as a universal language of cultural expression.
The event opened with a vibrant performance by the Doudou Ndiaye Rose Percussion Ensemble. Adorned in traditional Senegalese dress, the performers delivered a powerful sabar drumming sequence that told stories of Senegalese heritage and community through rhythm and movement.
The Central Conservatory of Music Percussion Ensemble followed with a selection of Chinese percussion pieces rich in national character. Their performance reflected the depth of Chinese culture through multi-layered, resonant rhythms that echoed the traditions of an ancient civilization.
Among the attendees was Dakar resident Idrissa Faye, who came with his four-year-old daughter. “A few days ago, I passed by the theater and saw a huge poster for this event. I had never seen a Chinese performance before, so I came early with my daughter today,” Faye said.
“The show was so amazing. I could really feel the grandeur and power of Chinese art,” he added.
During the performance, Yin introduced the audience to the historical and cultural significance of Chinese percussion. “In traditional Chinese culture, drums symbolize authority, sanctity, unity, and strength. In ancient times, drums announced the emperor’s processions, military departures, and religious ceremonies,” he explained.
“Even today, drum music is a vibrant part of Chinese life, especially during celebrations like the Spring Festival, temple fairs, and harvest festivities. It carries blessings and joy to the people,” Yin noted.
Sabar drumming, a core element of African percussion culture, is an interactive experience between drummers and dancers. Drummers adjust their rhythm in response to dancers’ movements, while dancers respond in turn—this dynamic exchange is known as the “conversation of the drums.”
For Mustapha Ndiaye, leader of the Doudou Ndiaye Rose Ensemble, Thursday’s performance had deep emotional resonance.
It served as a heartfelt tribute to his late father, Doudou Ndiaye Rose, who elevated traditional Wolof sabar drumming from community events to the world stage. The grand theater itself is named in his honor.
“This exchange is a great opportunity to spark new artistic inspiration. We share so many similar stories. The drum is more than an instrument. It’s a vessel of culture and spirit,” said Ndiaye. “One day, I hope to bring Senegalese drumming culture to China.”
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