monca is proud to present an unforgettable evening of traditional music from Guinea, West Africa, featuring master musician Lansana Kouyaté alongside local musicians and Nefertiti’s Dozen, a Chico-based African diaspora dance company. Kouyaté is a virtuoso of the melodic instrument called the bala of balafon, the musical ancestor of the modern vibraphone.
Kouyaté is a native of the village of Boke’, located in the costal region of Guinea. He began learning the bala at the age of two, at home with the primary guidance of his grandfather. He grew up steeped in the tradition of bala, emphasizing the importance of caring for the instrument and playing it with talent. Kouyaté relocated to the United States in 1991 and has become well known throughout the country for introducing the bala to new audiences, and for his skill on other African instruments including djembe and doun-doun. He has toured widely as a solo artist, and with his groups Limania and Mandeng Djelic.
Kouyaté and his instrument, the bala.
Kouyaté started performing in New York City, then relocated to Humboldt, California. In 2002 he moved to Chico to join other African artists who had settled here. He was a founding member of Chico West African Dance and Drum Ensemble. Kouyate now lives in Eureka, Ca.
Join us at the Museum of Northern California Art for a mesmerizing live performance, surrounded by art, dance, and community in the heart of Chico.
Friday, August 7, 2026
Performance: 7:00–9:00 PM
Museum of Northern California Art
900 Esplanade, Chico, CA
Tickets: $15 Adult, $5 Child, $30 Family
Available online or at the door while seating lasts.
BUY TICKETS NOW - SEATS ARE LIMITED
Group photo of dance company, Nefertiti's Dozen.
