Afrovism presents Sonora: Samifati & Transe Gnawa Express

Sonora is a two-day festival by Afro Vism in collaboration with Paradiso and Ticket to the Tropics. Afrovism is built around the celebration of Afro Arts and Culture. The aim is to inspire and connect people. Every event is designed to share meaningful experiences and highlight the many ways we can bring communities together through culture and creativity. 

The programme starts with Book Club Eu, where we will discuss the book A Quick Ting on Afrobeat by Christian Adofo, followed by a performance by Phantom Wizard and Samifati & Transe Gnawa Express. Check out the Saturday program here.

Timetable:

17.00-19.30 Workshop by Book Club EU
19.30-20.30 Phantom Wizard
20.30-22.00 Samifati & Transe Gnawa Express

SAMIFATI & TRANSE GNAWA EXPRESS
A collaboration between two bands that both see it as their mission to bring the sound of Gnawa to a global audience. The young musicians Hamouda, Amine, and Ahmed join forces with the duo SAMIFATI: Sami on violin and electronics, and Axel responsible for the visuals. They share the ambition to create music that resonates with their generation while offering a contemporary and innovative perspective on Gnawa music. The result is a project that speaks to both younger and older audiences alike.

What connects the members of both bands is their love for people. For them, engaging with listeners of all ages and backgrounds is an essential part of their music. On March 6, 2026, they will release their debut album, in which they blend Gnawa music with electronic sounds and visual projections. The electronic elements enhance the traditional music without overpowering it, creating a unique musical experience.

Book discussion with Book Club Eu
Book Club EU is a book club that welcomes everyone. You don't need to have read the book to join! In this conversation, we will delve into the importance of education, discussing our experiences with educational spaces and institutions, our own teaching methods as educators, and the transformative power of education.

Phantom Wizard
Composer and improviser whose work dissolves boundaries and reimagines traditions. Rather than controlling sound, he attempts to guide it. Nurturing a space where multiple truths can coexist. This principle is the core of ‘Fribari’, a sonic philosophy. Phantom Wizard blends natural soundscapes, the sonorities of Afro-diasporic music, experimental electronics and the many ancient traditions sourced from the Surinamese melting pot.