In Conversation with Famoudou Konaté, the King of Djembe

Big Bang Festival of Rhythm

Famoudou Konaté with Billy Konaté, Barra O Flannaigh and Brian Fleming

Dublin’s longest running intercultural festival, the Big Bang Festival of Rhythm (established 1994) presents a unique opportunity to meet the West African drumming legend Famoudou Konaté, in person. He has been invited for 15 years to come to the Big Bang and finally, at 85, he’s coming. 

Along with Mamady Keita who came to the Big Bang at the NCH in 2009, Famoudou is one of those most responsible for spreading Djembe and Mandeng culture throughout the world and was a central element in the history of the African Ballets, an important cultural, social and political event for the Pan African movement and the independence of the countries of the continent.
Famoudou will be interviewed by Big Bang Director, Brian Fleming with translation by Barra O Flannaigh and additional assistance from his son Billy Konaté. There will likely be a short musical demonstration as part of the presentation. Most importantly, there will be time for questions.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to put questions directly to the source. 

Presented by Big Bang Festival of Rhythm in association with NCH
Sponsored by Dublin City Council