Afro-Pop Ensemble Sampler

Come learn the rhythms, melodies, and harmonies of Cameroon, Ghana, Congo, Nigeria and South Africa in this invigorating ensemble workshp. We’ll work together to learn the deceptively complex interlocking parts of this music, spanning the genres of Highlife, Afrobeat, Ethiopian Jazz and others. The class is best suited for musicians who are comfortable with their instrument and are able to improvise. Over the course of the session we’ll learn four tunes, and you’ll leave with a broader understanding of the rhythms and song structures of this vibrant music.

Emmanuel “Gros” Ngolle Pokossi, originally from Cameroon, has been playing bass professionally for over thirty years. He has lived in France and Germany performing with many jazz, funk, and Afro-pop musicians and is now living in Chicago. He continues to tour internationally with Nigerian/German singer songwriter, Nneka.

Open to guitar, bass, percussion and horn players. Bring your instrument and

Prerequisites: Be comfortable with your instrument.