The University of Natal music department, the International Office and the African Music Project presented African Music & Dance Showcase 1999 on September 4 in Howard College theatre. This was followed by a dinner titled Cuisine from Africa held at the Centre for Jazz and Popular Music.

The programme featured a wide variety of African dance forms, including the Ngoma Girls from the Siphephile High School, master Chopi mbila player Karimona Absellino Chissambula and Uhlelo Olusha, an Isicathamiya choir from Port Shepstone. The highly disciplined Crocodile Gumboot Dancers under the leadership of veteran performer Stephen Shelembe were a major crowd pleasure but it was Ghanaian master percussionist Emmanuel Gomado who stole the show.

With his long Rasta locks, smouldering eyes and ever-ready mischievous smile, he immediately established a rapport with the audience before launching into an astounding virtuoso solo performance on the kpanlogo and apaso drums. He later appeared with the NU African Music Ensemble in two pieces Kuku and Aza, the latter being a piece he created in 1982 when Ghana launched its Cultural Policy.

You can catch Emmanuel Gomado down at the BAT Centre on September 10 and 11 when he will perform with Umgqumo We Africa at Zansi Restaurant at 21h00. Tickets R20. He will also present a rhythm workshop for all ages in the BAT Hall from September 11 to 12 (R50 a day but limited space available) and will be available for private lessons from September 6 to 12. Phone Field of Rhythm at BAT on 332-0451 for details or e-mail: lenas@lantic.co.za

And if you miss Emmanuel in Durban, you can head for Rustlers Valley from September 17 to 24 where he will be giving further drumming workshops. Phone Niyan on (051) 933-3939 or e-mail: wemad@rustlers.co.za