African Polyphony and Polyrhythm Workshop
African polyphony and polyrhythm workshop
Participants are guided through African vocal polyphony and polyrhythm techniques. Attendees must have some vocal ability and the capacity to harmonize or sing different melodies or rhythms alongside others.
Experience Photos
Workshop
Description
Participants are guided through African vocal polyphony and polyrhythm techniques. Attendees must have some vocal ability and the capacity to harmonize or sing different melodies or rhythms alongside others.
Benefits
- Develop advanced skills in African vocal polyphony and harmonic blending.
- Master complex polyrhythmic structures and interlocking percussion or vocal parts.
- Improve overall musicality, timing, and listening awareness within a group ensemble.
- Connect deeply with traditional African musical heritages through hands-on practice.
- Share a rewarding musical experience with fellow singers and musicians.
Additional Experience Info
Minimum 6 participants required. Suitable for participants aged 16+. Open to singers, drummers, percussionists, musicians, and music students with some prior vocal or rhythm ability.
Hosted by Coco Mbassi
About the Host
Coco Mbassi is a French-Cameroonian singer-songwriter, multi-award-winning artist, and multidisciplinary creator whose music blends African roots, classical music, jazz, and gospel with an acoustic soul feel. With over two decades of international touring experience—including major festivals worldwide and a stint as a lead singer in Cirque du Soleil's show Totem—she offers face-to-face and remote singing lessons, gospel workshops for choirs and vocal groups, African polyphony and polyrhythm workshops, and downloadable vocal course series.
Past Clients
Live 8 at the Eden Project, Louisiana International Festival, Jazz Sous Les Pommiers, Festival d’Été in Montréal, Nuits d’Afrique in Québec, Haus der Kulturen der Welt in Berlin, Afroprojekt in Würzburg, Womad festivals
Focus Areas
Creative/CultureWell-being/HealthDevelopment/Coaching
Location
Cambridge, United Kingdom
Languages
English, French, Lingala
Travel Locations
International touring and workshops across Europe, Asia, and Australia; based in Cambridge, UK.
Corporate Experience
Significant
Session Types Offered
Interactive & Passive
Past Experience Doing Sessions
Yes - Interactive
Client Requirements
A standard PA (variable depending on the event) and a professional microphone. A keyboard or piano for singing workshops.
Photo Gallery
Workshops › Creative & Team Building › African Polyphony and Polyrhythm Workshop