The WHC is delighted to have Landing Mané and the Hereford Drummers open the Hares Around the World show at Lyde Court, a signal of my intention to have the WHC host more African music, to better reflecting my broad love for the different musics from all parts of the continent. That said, we had a wonderful performance by kora player, Mosi Conde, as part of Koral Society some years back.

This love was sparked by the first WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) Festival which was held at the Royal Bath and West Showground in Shepton Mallet in July 1982. The first WOMAD may have been a financial disaster for founder Peter Gabriel and collaborators, (poor man had to rejoin Genesis temporarily to make up for the losses) but achieved exactly what it was supposed to do, at least in my case, in opening up ears to non-western music from various corners of the globe. The group that blew me away the most were the thundering Royal Drummers of Burundi, both for their own performance and for stealing the show when they came on stage with Echo and the Bunnymen for Zimbo. That experience and the purchase of King Sunny Ade’s classic lit the flame of my ongoing love of African music.

For those who haven’t come across him yet, Landing Mané is a versatile musician and dancer with innate talent for performing and teaching, and an energy which inspires joy in all.

Landing has over 40 years experience as a student, performer and teacher of West African music, song and dance. In his home country of Senegal, he was Artistic Director for the company Bakalama of Thionck-Essyl, which incorporates percussion, song and dance performance. Landing still continues to lead the group creatively and work with them when he travels to Senegal. Since arriving in London in 1998, Landing has worked as a choreographer, dancer and musician and has performed with many musicians and dance companies and his own company, Jamo Jamo Arts. He performs at festivals throughout Britain and Europe, including WOMAD and Drum Camp, and on the BBC’s show Strictly African Dance.

Landing also works as an educator and workshop facilitator in schools, communities and corporate team building events, sharing his knowledge and passion with students of all ages. He is currently also Artistic Director of Lanyi, Cardiff University's West African Ensemble.

About Landing’s workshops

African drumming is an energizing, motivating and joyous experience. In African cultures, it is one of the most fundamental activities, bringing people together to build a sense of community, celebrate, or just relax. Today, traditional rhythms and instruments are being combined and integrated with modern music and sounds, creating a fantastic synthesis, which educates, unites and inspires musicians and audiences alike.

The djembe (pronounced ‘jem-bay) is perhaps the most well known African instrument. With just three basic tones, this hand-played drum is accessible to people of all ages and abilities.