The Mandinka and their neighbors. Music of West Africa

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Description

This video presents ten historical scenes, captured on 8mm film at a time when portable video had not yet emerged as a viable medium. Eight of the scenes were filmed by Roderic Knight; two were contributed by renowned Gambian expert David Gamble. With the invaluable assistance of Elio Trabal, OC 2004, the footage has been lifted from the confines of the author's classroom to the present format, enabling its presentation to a wider public. Each scene focuses on a specific event or musical group. Five are devoted to regional sub-groups of the broad Mande culture: The Mandinka of The Gambia, the Koranko of Guinea, and the Serahuli of Mali. The other five scenes feature the Fula, Balanta, and Jola people. Also included are glimpses of the Super Eagles, a popular Gambian band, and the first Gambian president, Sir Dawda Jawara, speaking at a political rally.