TAKI means “song” or “melody” in the Kichua language. Project TAKI was formed by three native Ecuadorian musicians with extensive international experience and accomplishments to express the subtlety and sublimity of Andean music through their instruments and songs. This new ensemble explores the essence of Andean folk instruments through authentic ties to the cultural roots of its sound production. Their first album, “Pachamama”, is filled with the spirit of Andean music, emphasising the character of ethnic instruments and natural sound production.
We invite you to experience this Senegalese-Japanese Afro Beat, inspired by frontman Omar Gaindefall. “Begue” means “enjoy” in Wolof, a principal language spoken in Senegal. Originality is key, with Omar’s traditional Senegalese “Griot” style incorporating modern genres including reggae, jazz and pop. The band have performed at a huge variety of events, including in front of many ambassadors at the Africa Festival Yokohama, receiving high praise. In July, they just released their 4th album “Lou Bess Dioudouna”. With an acknowledged background of charitable work for worldwide childrens’ welfare, WMDF welcomes Afro Begue’s “meeting of worlds” goal.
Kateryna was born in the town of Prypiat in Ukraine. From childhood, she was introduced to traditional Ukrainian music through the indigenous instrument, the bandura. She first visited Japan as a 10-year-old. After formal studying of music in the Ukraine from the age of 16, she returned to Japan in 2008 to further the understanding of Ukranian culture. The bandula is a traditional Ukranian instrument that combines the appearance of a harp with the frets of a guitar. The bandula used by Katerina has over 60 strings and weighs more than 8 kilos. Her performances feature Ukranian traditional music, folk songs and popular songs, as well as Japanese songs. Kateryna is a veteran of the inaugural WMDF (2008), and also the 2010 and 2019 events. We are really looking forward to welcoming her to our 15th anniversary.
