Makru

Makru is one of two rhythms "Yankadi Makru" that are played together as a courting rhythm, originating from the Susu people of Southwest Guinea, West Africa.

Master drummer Mamady Keita describes Yankadi Makru in his book: Mamady Keita, "A Life for The Djembe";

The young people of neighbouring villages invite one another to Yankadi festivities. Mostly, the young people between the ages of fifteen and twenty-five dance, but the adults also like to be part of it! The dance begins slowly with the rhythm Yankadi; girls and boys face each other in two rows and slowly dance towards each other. One boy places a scarf on a girl as a symbol of love. Then, a whistle sounds, the signal for the change into the rhythm Makru, which is faster. The rows break up, and the couples dance individually.

Notation

Video Tutorials

Song Lyrics

Practice videos

Youtube video links

A ballet-style version of Yankadi Makru from the group "Dunyakelen"