To West Africa’s Mandinka, the djembe drum is imbued with three spirits: the Lenge tree that gave its base, the animal skin that gave its head, and the maker who gave its form. In the hands of a skilled djembe player, the instrument also channels the community’s soul. From agriculture to infant-naming ceremonies, different facets of life are witnessed by specific rhythms filled with symbolic meaning. Through a complex flurry of beats, the djembe drum conveys the vibrant pulse of life. ➡️ to listen • Highlights from this year’s A Tapestry of Sacred Music, which focuses on two of the oldest manifestations of faith through sound: The voice and the drum. • Photo: alvieisalive Video: Ambe Kelen: A Tribute to Mamady Keita at Esplanade Outdoor Theatre on 25 Mar, featuring Kelvin Kew and team. • #esplanadesg #mydurian #atapestryofsacredmusic