#diversearts

About the Musicians:

Abou Sylla -  Abou Sylla was born into a family of musicians in Conakry, Guinea in West Africa. Abou’s musical career began at the age of five when his uncle gave him a djembe. When he was a child, Abou moved from Conakry to a village where he began his study of the balafon. He lived, studied and performed with his balafon teacher until he was nineteen, at which time he moved back to Conakry to perform with his family, as well as other musicians.After returning to Conakry, Abou was invited to join Les Ballets Africains, the prestigious national dance company of Guinea. For six years he performed with them, playing not one, but five instruments – the balafon, djembe, krin, doundoun and bote. Abou has performed in Africa, Holland and throughout the United States.  He currently resides in Austin, Texas.

Ibrahim Aminou - Ibrahim, who is originally from Niger in West Africa, plays percussion, guitar and traditional African instruments including Kora (African harp) and Gyil (African xylophone). He leads a local African band "Zoumountchi" which performs every Saturday at the Sahara Lounge "Africa Night" and also plays in the "Golden Dawn Arkestra", "African Fola Groove" and "First Flight". He also teaches West African Drum and dance classes at the Carver Museum and UT Informal Classes and various schools. He also builds and sells instruments and provides music for weddings, children's parties  and other events.

Roland Kemokai -  Roland B. Kemokai a.k.a. Mista Muzic, is an Austin-based, Liberian singer/songwriter, composer, pianist, guitarist bassist, professional vocal coach, and the energetic lead singer for Austin’s roots reggae band, Roland & the Roots Riddim. In addition to being an engaging front-man, a powerful singer, and a multi-instrumentalist, he is also a published author and an in-demand speaker. A virtuosic pianist, guitarist, bassist, composer, vocal instructor, published author, and inspirational speaker, Roland uses his music to share his belief in the power of forgiveness, positive thinking, and the potential for greatness within us all. His electrifying stage presence coupled with his inspiring message and sweet melodic voice allows him to naturally connect with his audiences.