London International Music Festival:
Batimbo Percussion Magique

Join the London International Music Festival at Conway Hall for the Closing event of this year’s festival with a special performance by Batimbo Percussion Magique from Burundi. They will be joined by members and friends of the African Drumming London community. It will be a great cultural event of rhythmic repertoire, dance and song. The evening will begin with Batimbo Percussion Magique’s final London performance, followed by a joint performance with London African Drumming and concludes with an Open Jam session (bring your own drum!).

About the group:

Batimbo Percussion Magique is a mixed ensemble bringing song, dance and percussion to LIMF 2022. Started in 1997, the ensemble has members ranging in age from 10 to 50 years.

Drums form a key part of the ensemble’s performance and play a significant part in Burundian culture. They have been used throughout history for royal and other significant events and more popular culture in recent times.

Each performance piece tells a story and whether it be a drum-only piece or a combined drum, song and dance piece, Burundian culture is exuded through the rhythms, the energy and vibrant performances.

Some of their favourite pieces to perform include songs such as: ‘Urinyambo Burundi’ which means ‘Burundi Beautiful Country’ and Amahoro Mu Burundi’ meaning ‘Peace in Burundi’. Some of the dances include ‘Agasimbo’ and ‘Umuyebe’. In an impressive mix of dance, percussion and song, LIMF audiences will be treated to an exciting programme!

The Batimbo Percussion Magique has participated in a number of festivals around the world including India, PR China and U.A.E.

Director, Désiré Bigirimana, shared that “We want to come to London for LIMF because LIMF is a unique and musically compelling event bringing together musicians from different parts of the globe. A festival of this kind in London, one of the world’s greatest cities, brings great musical sharing and global understanding”.