In hibernation for eight years due to malfunctions, the economic crisis and recently the health crisis due to Covid-19, the popular and international festival of traditional music “Feux de Brazza” resumed its rights with the 6th edition launched on Wednesday 8 december.
With our correspondent in Brazzaville, Loicia Martial
On the esplanade of the National Radio and Television Center (CNRTV), in front of an imposing luminous podium surrounded by the public, a traditional group from the south of Brazzaville is performing. Each of the dancers has tied a loincloth around the waist to better execute the dance steps. The men meanwhile play the tom-tom.
The show amazed Jaron Mabouka, a student. “ Listening to traditional music from home, it really reminds me of the past and it puts us back in the bath that our ancestors left us “, he admits.
Mixes between traditional instruments and rumba
Alexandre Mikouiza, alias B4, dressed all in white, is one of the artists who will animate the festival. “ I’m Congolese, but I don’t play anymore the kora which is a Mandinka instrument, therefore from West Africa. I told myself that art has no borders. Why not make this merger to enhance our instruments. In a few months, I will duet the kora and the sanza “, he says.
The contribution of traditional instruments to the Congolese rumba is the theme of this edition of the festival launched by the Minister of Cultural Industry, Lydie Pongault. ” We show a very strong commitment to promote our traditions, and we must be proud of our traditions she says.
The traditional groups invited come from the Congo, the DRC, Gabon and even Cameroon. The festival continues until December 10.
►Also read: The Congolese rumba, from its origins to its inclusion in the Intangible Heritage of Humanity