Michiel Moerkerk

From a young age my love for rhythm and music was clear. Started with drums and conga, the African percussion came on my path. For many years I have dedicated myself to the djembé and doundouns.  When the Kamele N’goni crossed my path, i was immediately touched by the instrument. The beautiful sound and the combination of the fierce percussive on the one hand and the meditative soft character on the other. An instrument for dancing and relaxing!

In 2013 I founded the band PaPa GoNi. A band with an eclectic sound that encourages dancing, listening and easily conquers your heart. The music is based on the Kamale N’goni. See www.papagoni.nl

The Kamale N’goni is incredibly rich with many possibilities. Western modern inventions have made the instrument attractive worldwide.
As a musician I develop myself by creating, discovering and with great interest and respect for the origin of the instrument.
N’goni players that I have learned from and who inspire me are Joris Feuilattre, Abou Diarra, Alex Wielemans and last but not least Adama Coulibaly.
I live with my two children in Rotterdam, the Netherlands and I love ferns and gorillas.