Weaving rhythms

Cities and Memory - remixing the world

"With its sharp, clipped sounds and natural rhythm, this recording immediately drew me in. It felt like a composition in itself, already crafted, and required little manipulation to tease out its natural syncopation and lively tempo. In my reimagined piece, I aimed to enhance these natural rhythms, capturing the physicality of Kente weaving - the movement of hands, the crossings of parallel threads, the interplay of warp and weft.
"As I listened, the percussive quality of the weaving reminded me of the gyil, the traditional Ghanaian xylophone/ wooden. The gyil’s bright, buzzing resonance created by its gourd resonators mirrors the sounds of the wooden loom and treadles. Inspired by this connection, I incorporated gyil-like tonal elements into the composition and played with a few samples. The warm, resonant timbres of the instrument blend with the weaving sounds, creating a dialogue between craftsmanship and music, tradition and reinterpretation. This interplay between instrument and craft reflects the deep relationship between Ghanaian music and artisanal traditions.
"Many thanks to Samuel, Emmanuele, and the individuals featured in this recording. Through your hands and laughter in this recording, I feel a deep connection to this moment in time and wondered what you were creating.
"The title, "Weaving Rhythms," highlights the profound cultural and historical significance of Kente weaving, Ghanaian music and the community that comes together through both art forms. Just as each thread in Kente cloth carries meaning, I wonder what stories the loom has heard. Interlacing tradition, storytelling, and heritage, kente is rich with symbolism. The piece unfolds in layers like a woven tapestry, as I build up the motif before scaling it back to reach the final few seconds, where a spool of thread is spun."
Weaving in Kpetoe reimagined by Delphine Boagey.
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This sound is part of the Sonic Heritage project, exploring the sounds of the world’s most famous sights.
Find out more and explore the whole project: https://www.citiesandmemory.com/heritage