Bwazan, the Bobos who are the pride of Mali in the field of Percussion.

– Bamako Hebdo

Bassidi and Bwazan rehearse in the city centre of Bamako. They currently rehearse late afternoons between 16:00 and 18:00 on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. All visitors are welcome to attend! Please enquire via our contact page for more information.

Intensive Tuition and Workshops with Bassidi and Bwazan in Bamako, Mali.

Bassidi Koné and members of his percussions group, Bwazan (bwazan-mali.com), offer private tuition and group workshops for local and international students wishing to study djembe, balafon, kamalan n’goni, doun doun, and traditional Malian dance.

Students of all levels are invited to study with Bwazan, beginners through to professional musicians. Students have the freedom to select their study hours, which can include up to five hours of intensive study a day with Bwazan, Monday through to Saturday. Students fast-track their musicianship in their chosen instrument and experience the cultural context in which it is played in local life, developing a deeper understanding and knowledge of both the authentic Griot traditions and rhythms found throughout West Africa, predominately  those in Mali.

Outside of tuition hours and on Sundays, students have opportunities to explore Bamako’s rich culture and local music and dance scene by attending festivals, ceremonies and marriages in Bamako and surrounding villages. When opportunities arise, students are welcome to accompany Bwazan on their overland tours to explore festivals and historical and cultural events throughout the wider region of Mali and West Africa.

As Bassidi and Bwazan are based in Mali, living and rehearsing in Bamako for the majority of the year, they can usually receive students year-round. Most students visit between December and February. Some students commit to longer-term apprenticeships with Bwazan for up to three months, participating in daily tuition and Bwazan rehearsals.

Prospective Students Planning to Visit in 2018

If you are interested in studying with Bassidi and Bwazan, please contact them via Bassidi’s Contact page. They will provide you with an information package, which details tuition costs and discounts. Discounts are offered, depending on length of stay and number of classes taken.

In 2018, Bassidi and Bwazan will be offering their students tuition alone, not hosting packaged study tours. This said, they will do all they can to assist you in meeting your needs and pursuing you interests during your stay. They will provide you with up-to-date information which details varied accomodation options, meal and restaurant options, recommendations on cultural and historical sites to explore, musical events and ceremonies to visit during your stay, and general travel safety advice.

Bassidi will arrange transport to and from the airport for all students visiting, and instrument hire if needed.

* Please contact Bwazan well in advance, prior to booking your flights, to ensure they are in Bamako and available to provide you with tuition during your visit.