Sonic Pluriverse Festival: Terapia – Ajate, Ilê Aiyê

In the organizer's words:

Ajate
Concert

Founded in 2011, the ten-piece ensemble Ajate combines handmade bamboo instruments with traditional Japanese percussion. The instruments, which were all developed by band leader John Imaeda, incorporate dance rhythms from the Afro groove into the traditional Japanese festival music Ohayashi. One of the instruments is the jahte - a xylophone or balafon made of bamboo, equipped with a piezo microphone on each of the bars and connected to a preamplifier. This setup adds a touch of dark distortion to its warm and natural acoustic sounds. The piechiku is also inspired by various stringed instruments, such as the West African ngoni, the Moroccan gembri and the Japanese shamisen.

Ilê Aiyê
Concert

Founded in 1974 in the Liberdade neighborhood of Salvador (Bahia), Ilê Aiyê is a musical powerhouse celebrated for its unique Afro-Brazilian rhythms and rousing performances. Originally founded as a Black-only carnival group, Ilê Aiyê was formed in response to the systemic racism the group faced when participating in the city's official carnival parade. Inspired by the Black Power and Black Panther movements, Ilê Aiyê strives to honor African heritage while defying social injustice.

Ilê Aiyê's performances captivate audiences in Brazil and around the world in an iconic interweaving of elaborate costumes, choreographed dances and electrifying energy. From a carnival group, Ilê Aiyê has grown into a cultural institution and a symbol of Afro-Brazilian pride. The organization hosts cultural events such as music festivals, dance performances and educational programs - all with the goal of promoting Black culture and fostering a deeper understanding of cultural identity and unity in the community.