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Project call: MetX Wild Card 2025

Project call: MetX Wild Card 2025

14/11/2024

In addition to our regular resident artists, MetX is always looking for new, emerging musicians and original formats. That's why we launch another Wild Card for musicians in 2025. Looking for artistic, productional and financial support to start a new project under the wings of MetX? You can submit your proposal until 20 January!

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Chaabi Habibi Festival: tribute to the musical heritage of chaabi

Chaabi Habibi Festival: tribute to the musical heritage of chaabi

04/11/2024

From 24 November till 5 December, you can meet up at various locations to enjoy concerts, film projections and other activities dedicated to the musical heritage of chaabi. To name but a few: the polyphonic encounter Chœurs En Trance at Espace Magh, a workshop about music, dance & transformation at MetX and the festive finale Habibi Connection with Think of One, Laïla Amezian, B'net Chaabi and Kabareh Cheikhats at KVS.

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Brussels’ Gnawas in the spotlight

Brussels’ Gnawas in the spotlight

15/10/2024

Did you know that Brussels is the European capital of Gnawa culture, with over forty musicians living in the city? And that MetX has been working with many of them for nearly 25 years? To mark the 60th anniversary of the bilateral agreement on migration between Belgium and Morocco, we are highlighting this thriving scene and its collaborations through a movie, podcast, musical notebook and various celebrations.

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Día de Muertos dans les Marolles 2024

Día de Muertos dans les Marolles 2024

08/10/2024

From 28 October to 2 November, we are once again organising Día de Muertos in Les Marolles, together with Tas d'Os and CC Bruegel. With the Great Altar of the Dead, a trio of musicians invited from Mexico for workshops, concerts and a Fandango, a walk through the cemetery and, on Saturday 2/11, La Procesión through the neighbourhood with a closing concert at Parc des Brigittines!

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BRUiTAL seeks totemistas with guts

BRUiTAL seeks totemistas with guts

24/09/2024

BRUiTAL The Band is expanding! From November 24, you can learn to play DIY made lo-fi electro totems during a series of open workshops with Jo Zanders and Vital Schraenen. What do you need? A sense of rhythm and a strong dose of guts. What do you get in return? An official diploma as a BRUiTALian that you can ritually burn during one of the next concerts you play with them!

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Join our musicians in celebrating Belgian-Moroccan migration!

Join our musicians in celebrating Belgian-Moroccan migration!

02/09/2024

60 years ago, Belgium and Morocco signed a bilateral agreement on the employment of Moroccan workers in our country. This autumn, we will be celebrating this rich migratory history with parades and concerts in the centre of Brussels on 22/09 and in les Marolles on 4/10. Together with our musicians and several partners, we invite you to join in the festivities with music, singing and dance!

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Toope Ajoyo: Let’s celebrate together to musical traditions of West Africa

Toope Ajoyo: Let’s celebrate together to musical traditions of West Africa

27/06/2024

Three neo-fanfares from Brussels and Charleroi, a percussion group from Leuven and a philharmonic orchestra from Jabbeke have immersed themselves in the musical traditions of West Africa. Drawing their inspiration from the artistic universe of Esinam Dogbatse and Ejaspapa Gnonlonfoun, they celebrated the summer solstice on 22 and 23 June in Brussels and Bruges!

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Bal Maské & AGO la Fiest’Art @ Vaux-Hall Summer

Bal Maské & AGO la Fiest’Art @ Vaux-Hall Summer

18/06/2024

This summer, our musicians invite you to the timeless bubble of the Vaux-Hall in Brussels. On 6/07, BRUiTAL meets Karrakallas, DROM and Atelier Leon organise a Bal Maské with trance grooves and punk dance. And on 3/08 Ejaspapa Gnonlonfoun, GanGan TNS and others will plunge you into the infectious dances, rhythms and musical traditions of West Africa at AGO la Fiest'Art.

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DOCU: international collectif BRZ’NKO ŠTROÏ at Zinneke Parade

DOCU: international collectif BRZ’NKO ŠTROÏ at Zinneke Parade

02/06/2024

Scoop at this year's Zinneke Parade: we invited eight organisations from outside Brussels and Belgium for an international Zinnode! Together with participants from Paris, Edinburgh, Prague, Roztoky, Rotterdam, Tilburg, Leuven and La Louvière, we formed the collective BRZ'NKO ŠTROÏ. A motley crew of soundmakers from the four corners of Europe!

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Bazzaria & BRODER play KEIKOP

Bazzaria & BRODER play KEIKOP

15/05/2024

At the end of June, our multidisciplinary brass band Bazzaria will be performing in the theatre production KEIKOP. Together with the BRODER choir, they will play, dance and sing the story of a cheeky Brussels cobblestone. See you at Bronks on 28-29-30 June for this oratorio for children 6+, a play that's part concert, part musical.

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ESINAM presents: ReBirth of Hope @ Concertgebouw Brugge 23 June

ESINAM presents: ReBirth of Hope @ Concertgebouw Brugge 23 June

24/04/2024

In 2024 MetX and Concertgebouw Brugge give ESINAM carte blanche for a brand new creation on the theme of birth. Inspired by her West African roots, she sets to work with poetry, vocals and music, and forms an all-female line-up around her: Tutu Puoane, Wassa Kouyaté, Louise van den Heuvel and Sarah Van Impe.

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Next re:encounter# with Robbe Latré 30/05 @ Au Bassin

Next re:encounter# with Robbe Latré 30/05 @ Au Bassin

10/04/2024

re:encounter# is the recurring encounter of seven musical spirits, each at the forefront of their musical subculture in Brussels. The collective balances free improvisation and instant composition, blending its energies into a meditative, en-trancing, yet groovy and soulful musical narrative that resonates with Brussels' ungraspable diversity.

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Moroccan rhythm workshops on Bendir & Ta’rija

Moroccan rhythm workshops on Bendir & Ta’rija

26/03/2024

From April, VK, MetX and HalfmOon are offering workshops on the percussion instruments bendir and ta'rija. Accompanied by Fatoum, Laïla Amezian and percussionists from the B'net Chaabi group, you can learn to play Moroccan rhythms from the chaabi & izran traditions.

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Fatmas goes gnawa @ Musikaa – Klarafestival 2024

Fatmas goes gnawa @ Musikaa – Klarafestival 2024

12/02/2024

On March 10, Fatmas from Belgica will be performing in VK during Musikaa. The finale of this four-year programme by Klarafestival offers Molenbeek’s talent the opportunity to shine on stage. For the occasion, Fatmas will be joined by musicians from Karkaba for a vocal exploration of the gnawa repertoire.

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West African percussion with Ejaspapa Gnonlonfoun & GanGan TNS

West African percussion with Ejaspapa Gnonlonfoun & GanGan TNS

18/12/2023

A new series of free workshops on the Talking Drums of Western Africa. Accompanied by Beninese drummer and percussionist Ejaspapa Gnonlonfoun, you learn everything about this fascinating instrument and polyrhythms. In the summer of 2024 you can play with GanGan TNS and other music groups during Fête de la Musique in the Marolles. 

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Día de Muertos 2023 expands from les Marolles to Ghent

Día de Muertos 2023 expands from les Marolles to Ghent

09/11/2023

From 29 October till 4 November we once again celebrated Día de Muertos. With must-sees like the Grand Altar of the Dead, a series of masterclasses plus ‘Fandango’ jam session with musicians from Mexico and the Procesión with a closing concert on the Place du Jeu de Balle! A pocket edition also took place in Ghent on 1/11 in collaboration with Bij' De Vieze Gasten.

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The street is our stage @ Brussels2030 Summer Assembly

The street is our stage @ Brussels2030 Summer Assembly

03/07/2023

In partnership with Zinneke and Park Poétik, we launch an international exchange platform around culture in the urban public space. At the end of June, we invited a dozen Belgian and international organisations to reflect on the political, social and cultural relevance of large-scale participatory initiatives. On the program: a co-creation workshop during the Brussels2030 Summer Assembly and immersion walks throughout the city.

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Fanfakids Summer in the Caribbean and Sziget Festival

Fanfakids Summer in the Caribbean and Sziget Festival

19/06/2023

The Fanfakids are pushing their limits this summer. In July they will travel to Aruba and Curaçao together with Brassbandschool Rotterdam for an international exchange with local youth groups. And on August 12 and 13 they play at the famous Sziget Festival in Budapest.

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Urbanistics Festival Report 2023

Urbanistics Festival Report 2023

15/05/2023

On Saturday 13 May, a new edition of Urbanistics took place at Campus Nieuwland. During this free festival, young and old could dive into a wide range of urban disciplines from noon till nighttime. On the programme: workshops, breakdance & MC battles, performances by the Fanfakids, a street market and much more!

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Fête de la Musique – Sounds of Marolles 25/06

Fête de la Musique – Sounds of Marolles 25/06

03/05/2023

Join us for a new edition of Fête de la Musique dans les Marolles! Neighbourhood residents, students, artists and visitors improvise themselves as musicians thanks to “DIY” techniques: recycled instruments, experimental sound effects and other savage soundscapes. With workshops for all ages from May, ahead of a participatory grand final on Sunday June 25.

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MetX Festival Resident @ ICAF Rotterdam 2023

MetX Festival Resident @ ICAF Rotterdam 2023

03/04/2023

So proud! MetX was the very first resident of ICAF, the renowned International Community Arts Festival in Rotterdam. From 29/03-02/04 we facilitated workshops, did interventions in the public space, presented the youth activities of our Fanfakids and closed the festival with a concert by the Sheikhs Shikhats & B'net Chaabi in Theater Zuidplein.

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Annual master class weekend with our groups

Annual master class weekend with our groups

27/03/2023

At the end of March, our colourful collectif of musicians has once again turned the Destelheide Training Centre upside down. During a whole weekend, more than 50 members from groups like BRUiTAL, Remork & Karkaba, Fanfakids and Fatmas de Belgica prepared for the coming concert season. With rehearsals, workshops, try outs and some surprises du chef!

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MetX goes ramadan friendly

MetX goes ramadan friendly

22/03/2023

During the month of Ramadan, a number of cultural organisations in Brussels work to make their activities accessible to people of Muslim origin. MetX also participates in this Kaaitheater initiative. During our master class weekend, for example, we offer facilities allowing everyone to participate, regardless of their religion.

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Chaabi Habibi Andaloussi @ Musikaa – Klarafestival 2023

Chaabi Habibi Andaloussi @ Musikaa – Klarafestival 2023

14/03/2023

On March 12, the Fatmas de Belgica again took part in Musikaa, a collaboration between Klarafestival, BOZAR and cultural organisations from Molenbeek. On this occasion, Laïla Amezian chose to focus on popular Arabic-Andalusian songs. The Fatmas de Belgica will be accompanied by the string quartet 'Quatuor Satellite' with arrangements by Fabian Fiorini.

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Sheikhs Shikhats & B’net Chaabi RELEASE: Complainte Chaabi | Awmaloulou

Sheikhs Shikhats & B’net Chaabi RELEASE: Complainte Chaabi | Awmaloulou

03/02/2023

The Sheikhs Shikhats & B’net Chaabi drop a second single from their debut album. This original composition, based on a traditional Moroccan chaabi song from the 1960s, comes with a music video made by Maël L. Lagadec. The full album will be released in March via Zephyrus Records, followed by a release tour in Belgium and the Netherlands.

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Bakanaï Showcase Concert 18/12

Bakanaï Showcase Concert 18/12

02/12/2022

On Sunday 18 December, Bakanaï closes the year with a showcase concert and drink at MetX. Laurent and his colourful collective of dancers and musicians invite everyone to bring a toast to the past year and enjoy some good music! Want to groove and move towards 2023 to the rhythm of our exuberant trance fanfare? See you as from 7 pm in De Lenglentierstraat 20.

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Sheikhs Shikhats & B’net Chaabi RELEASE: Still to Come

Sheikhs Shikhats & B’net Chaabi RELEASE: Still to Come

23/11/2022

The Sheikhs Shikhats & B’net Chaabi drop a first single from their debut album: Still to Come. With this captivating song, Laïla Amezian, Laurent Blondiau and the 16 other group members transport you with a big bang to the rich musical universe of the shikhats and ghanayats. The full album will be released in March 2023 via Zephyrus Records and will be accompanied by a release tour in Belgium and the Netherlands.

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Mediterranean vibes and performances @ Souk Chaabi

Mediterranean vibes and performances @ Souk Chaabi

14/11/2022

Together with Laïla Amezian, we transformed the large hall at MetX into a colourful souk in a Mediterranean atmosphere. Visitors could discover stalls with artisan products, creative workshops and artistic performances with, among others, members of the group Kabareh Cheikhats (MAR), the singers of Sultanats B'net Chaabi and musicians Laurent Blondiau & Toine Thys.

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5th edition of Día de Muertos dans les Marolles

5th edition of Día de Muertos dans les Marolles

05/11/2022

From 30 October to 5 November we once again celebrated Día de Muertos both inside and outside the Marolles. Featuring masterclasses and a Fandango with the musician Patricio Hidalgo, workshops and storytelling evenings on the commemoration of the dearly departed, the installation of the Great Altar of the Dead and of course the Procesión on Saturday evening!

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MetX joins Décrocher la lune in La Louvière

MetX joins Décrocher la lune in La Louvière

21/09/2022

On Saturday 24 September, the urban opera Décrocher la lune will take place in La Louvière. For the music, the new artistic direction calls on Laurent Blondiau and MetX. Laurent composed the entire soundtrack for the event and will perform it together with an ad hoc ensemble, reinforced by the Orchester Lunaire (La Louvière), Bakanaï (Brussels) and the New Moon project, a percussion group formed for the Zinneke Parade.

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Music video BRUiTAL ft. SungirlZ – Ostina Lux

Music video BRUiTAL ft. SungirlZ – Ostina Lux

31/08/2022

Watch out! Our underground noise makers clash, grind and melt their energies with dance collectif SungirlZ for their first music video. Directed by Joaquin Breton and Vital Schraenen. Recorded at the temporary art hub Face B at Grand Sablon - Brussels.

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Summer workshops Bakanaï

Summer workshops Bakanaï

24/07/2022

Do you play a percussion, wind or other acoustic instrument and wanna dive into the music of Bakanaï? Artistic coordinator Laurent Blondiau and musicians from the group organised four consecutive evenings of summer workshops, with a closing concert during OpenStreets Molenbeek on 22/07.

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Aftermovie Singing Brussels Marolles

Aftermovie Singing Brussels Marolles

05/07/2022

18 choirs and festive brass bands, a musical tour across the streets of les Marolles and a grand final concert featuring 250 singers and musicians at the Palais de Justice. This was Singing Brussels Marolles, a magnificent urban cantata in celebration of the Fête de la Musique. Throwback to Sunday 19 June with our aftermovie and a report on BRUZZ!

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Percussion workshops & parades @ Brussels2030 Summer Assembly

Percussion workshops & parades @ Brussels2030 Summer Assembly

18/06/2022

This summer we participate in the preparation of the candidacy for Brussels European Capital of Culture. During the Brussels2030 Summer Assembly we organise percussion workshops with Jo Zanders on 5, 6 & 7 July. In parallel, Jo also gives workshops DIY percussion in Forest. On July 8, both groups bring a closing musical performance.

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Urbanistics: first hip-hop festival for young and old

Urbanistics: first hip-hop festival for young and old

24/05/2022

During this free festival on July 2, people of all ages can discover the richness of hip-hop and urban disciplines. With demos, workshops and battles for children and their parents, followed by an evening program with concerts and talent contests for teenagers and adults.

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MetX residency: our groups are ready for the festivals!

MetX residency: our groups are ready for the festivals!

11/04/2022

Finally we were able again to bring together a large group of musicians for our annual residency! More than 60 musicians from BRUiTAL, Remork & Karkaba, Bakanaï and Fanfakids, among others prepared in GC Nekkersdal for the upcoming concerts.

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Singing Brussels Marolles 19 June

Singing Brussels Marolles 19 June

31/03/2022

MetX, CC Bruegel and Bozar present an exciting new edition of Singing Brussels, organised as part of the Fête de la musique! On Sunday 19 June, you can enjoy a musical tour across singing concerts in the Marolles, that will end with a large participatory concert in front of the Palais de Justice.

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B’net Chaabi & Fatmas de Belgica @ MUSIKAA

B’net Chaabi & Fatmas de Belgica @ MUSIKAA

15/03/2022

Early March, we took part in MUSIKAA, the project of Klarafestival and Bozar in Molenbeek. Together with VK, we pay tribute to two musical traditions from Morocco that have been passed on orally by women: Izran & Chaabi. With an interactive lecture on 7/03, a residency from 9-12/03 and a series of try out concerts on 13/03.

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Want to join the Zinneke Parade 2022?

Want to join the Zinneke Parade 2022?

25/02/2022

This year's Zinneke Parade will take place on 14 May and will have the theme "Trompe l'oeil". Various groups and artists from MetX also participate. The Fanfakids form a zinnode with Kuumba and BBO, BRUiTAL works on DIY percussion instruments and some MetX musicians organise rhythmic workshops for brass and wind musicians.

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New online compilation MetXology Volume 6

New online compilation MetXology Volume 6

02/02/2022

Our brand new compilation featuring the newest and most original sounds from the MetX universe. Ready to explore Mâäk’s musical freedom, BRUiTAL’s intriguing soundscapes, the Fanfakids’ youthful energy or the generous cross-fertilization of gnawa music, jazz & brass by Marockin’ Brass and Remork & Karkaba?

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New release: Mâäk Quintet ‘Papa Ours’

New release: Mâäk Quintet ‘Papa Ours’

17/01/2022

Mâäk Quintet releases a second track as part of our MetXology compilation. In Papa Ours, trumpet, alt sax and tenor sax interlace three separate melodic lines, propelled by a question-answer game of two repetitive loops, each with different lengths. They performed the new track live at Brussels Jazz Weekend Winter, the online release is coming soon!

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Darna ends the season @ AB with AGO Gnawa ft. T.B. Wèh & BLAST

Darna ends the season @ AB with AGO Gnawa ft. T.B. Wèh & BLAST

06/12/2021

Brass from the world of jazz and global sounds, multilingual vocals, spoken word and rhythms that take you to North and West Africa. At it’s Winter Event on December 12, Darna offers you two exclusive concerts at AB, for free and 100% corona proof: AGO Gnawa ft. T.B. Wèh & BLAST, followed by Gnawa de Bruxelles ft. Lucid Lucia.

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BSN Brass, Bolo & B-Boy Battle for Brussel Helpt

BSN Brass, Bolo & B-Boy Battle for Brussel Helpt

28/11/2021

Helping young people in Brussels with spaghetti and an evening out? That's what we did during our BSN Brass, Bolo & B-Boy Battle on Saturday 27/11. On the menu: an original mix of dance, music, (wrestling) sports and spaghetti with the partners of Brede School Nieuwland, for the benefit of Brussel Helpt.

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Día de Muertos dans les Marolles 2021

Día de Muertos dans les Marolles 2021

10/11/2021

After an intimate version in 2020, we celebrated the dead this year with a whole series of festivities! On the programme: workshops for young and old. A giant altar for leaving mementos of the dearly departed. And a finale with no less than four different Día de Muertos processions and Mexican fireworks!

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Fanfakids ft. Urban Center Brussel present: KoKa

Fanfakids ft. Urban Center Brussel present: KoKa

02/11/2021

The first music video by the Fanfakids and the breakdancers of Urban Center Brussel! Director Klaas Boelen wrote and shot the clip with the Fanfakids, who show off their percussion and dance skills as well as their cinematographic ambitions. The official release took place on 2 November during Filem'On, the International Film Festival for Young Audiences.

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Enough is Enough! A call for global climate action

Enough is Enough! A call for global climate action

21/10/2021

In the run-up to the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow, the Scottish group Oi Musica invites music makers worldwide for a powerful climate wake-up call. Luc Mishalle, Jo Zanders and other MetX musicians made a Brussels arrangement of Karine Polwart's song Enough is Enough, together with a matching video clip.

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Want to join our musicians? Project call: MetX Carte Blanche

Want to join our musicians? Project call: MetX Carte Blanche

30/09/2021

In addition to our well-known productions, house artists and ad hoc projects, MetX is always looking for young blood, emerging musicians or original formats. That's why we launch a new 'Carte Blanche'. The goal? Develop a new project from scratch in 2022 under the wings of MetX.

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Doors Open Day Nieuwland ft. Fanfakids & Karkaba

Doors Open Day Nieuwland ft. Fanfakids & Karkaba

22/09/2021

On Wednesday 22 September, the Doors Open Day of Brede School Nieuwland took place in the heart of the Marolles. As a partner, we also gave a foretaste of some after-school activities offered by MetX: the Fanfakids + breakdancers of Urban Center Brussel and our gnawa training programme Karkaba.

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Back to school: Hand over your dreams to the Cosmogolem

Back to school: Hand over your dreams to the Cosmogolem

02/09/2021

The first day of school is an exciting day for many children. Together with Circularium and the Cosmogolem we wanted to make it something special. With performances, games, initiations trampoline jumping and putting dreams for the new school year into the heart of a wooden giant!

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New gnawa workshops with Karkaba

New gnawa workshops with Karkaba

19/08/2021

Want to learn more about this traditional music and dance genre from Morocco? Mâalem Driss Filali and Mohamed Saïd Akasri invite you to workshops in a.o. the Marolles neighbourhood, Zaventem and Waregem. And via the Muziekpublique Academy you can participate at a series of gnawa initiations with our training program Karkaba.

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New release Mâäk Quintet ‘Sémille-Sommeille’

New release Mâäk Quintet ‘Sémille-Sommeille’

30/06/2021

Mâäk Quintet also releases new work as part of our MetXology compilation. With 'Sémille-Sommeille', they let music speak to the soul where words sometimes fail. Ready for an inner mind trip full of frenetic themes and improvisations? Discover Mâäk Quintet's new single on Spotify!

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Partnership Hoofdstedelijke Kunstacademie & MetX

Partnership Hoofdstedelijke Kunstacademie & MetX

29/06/2021

From the academic year 2021-2022 onwards, the Hoofdstedelijke Kunstacademie and MetX are joining forces. Wind instrument students at the academy can take their ensemble/combo classes with MetX groups Bakanaï or Remork & Karkaba. Musicians from these groups can, in turn, join the academy for additional instrumental lessons.

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Fêtes de la Musique in les Marolles and Molenbeek

Fêtes de la Musique in les Marolles and Molenbeek

22/06/2021

In the weekend of 19-21 June, we FINALLY celebrated outside again! Our groups and artists turned the streets and squares upside down during Fête de la Musique. With Remork & Karkaba and Fanfakids in Molenbeek, balcony concerts in les Marolles and a smashing fanfare fiesta at the Sk8tepark Ursulines!

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Children and teenagers celebrate new Cosmogolem

Children and teenagers celebrate new Cosmogolem

10/05/2021

The Brussels Cosmogolem is ready for a corona-proof party! From 13 to 16 May, together with numerous children and artists, we will celebrate the inauguration of this new work of art for children's rights. Get ready for a 4-day 'Celebration Wave' with a start in Genk, stops in Diest and Leuven and apotheosis on the Place de la Vaillance in Anderlecht!

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CosmoGolem connects youngsters in Flanders and Brussels

CosmoGolem connects youngsters in Flanders and Brussels

31/03/2021

A lot of youngsters are having a hard time during this pandemic. In Brussels, Leuven, Diest and Genk, organisations are joining forces to artistically reinforce the voices, wishes and dreams of young people about what it means to live together in the city. They focus on the question “Hoe dream jij notre stad?” ("How do you dream our city?”)

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New releases Remork & Karkaba

New releases Remork & Karkaba

25/03/2021

Our gnawa fanfare releases three new tracks: own arrangements of the gnawa-classic “Tchor Kerira” and the Latin American traditional “Maria Theresa”, plus an arrangement of Luc Mishalle's "Afriquia". You will also recognise the latter song as the soundtrack for their brand new video!

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Brussels gnawa added as intangible heritage

Brussels gnawa added as intangible heritage

10/03/2021

Flemish Minister of Culture Jan Jambon had Karkaba added to the Register of Inspiring Examples of intangible heritage. Through this training programme around gnawa culture, people of all ages, sexes and origins can familiarise themselves with traditional gnawa music, dance and singing.

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MetX tutorials & digital repertoire

MetX tutorials & digital repertoire

02/03/2021

Want to keep playing music without live rehearsals? As a musician of our participatory groups, you can practice from home with tutorial videos and other online tools. An overview of our digital repertoire, in anticipation of the new concert season:

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Belgian Music Week

Belgian Music Week

15/02/2021

The week of 8 till 14 February has been one big declaration of love to Belgian music. Together with VI.BE, VRT and the broad music sector, we've put homegrown music in the spotlight. On the menu: gnawa-jazz with MXDO @ Lagrange Points, MikMâäk @ De Bijloke, BWMN Showcase Night & much more!

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The CosmoGolem On Tour

The CosmoGolem On Tour

18/01/2021

The CosmoGolem is coming to Brussels. This wooden giant, created by artist Koen Vanmechelen, is a worldwide symbol for children's rights. In collaboration with B-Classic, Studio Koen Vanmechelen and local organisations, we bring together children and artists to make it an unforgettable journey.

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Kick off MetXology recordings

Kick off MetXology recordings

18/01/2021

In 2021 we'll be releasing a new volume of our MetXology compilation albums. Mâäk Quintet and Marockin' Brass started recording at the end of 2020. Fanfakids, BRUiTAL and Karkaba will follow soon. The new tracks will be available online and hopefully to be discovered at a concert or festival near you!

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Project call: MetX Carte Blanche

Project call: MetX Carte Blanche

09/12/2020

In addition to our well-known productions, house artists and ad hoc projects, MetX is always looking for young blood, emerging musicians or original formats. That's why in 2021, we launch another 'Carte Blanche' for a musician to start a new project under the wings of MetX.

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Fanfakids workshops @ UCB

Fanfakids workshops @ UCB

01/12/2020

As from 2021, Urban Center Brussel organises percussion workshops featuring the Fanfakids. Children aged 6-12 years can learn different rhythms together with some advanced group members and ex-Fanfakid Jalel Vangoethem. The workshops will take place each Monday at Campus Nieuwland.

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Livestream MikMâäk @ De Bijloke

Livestream MikMâäk @ De Bijloke

24/11/2020

MikMâäk embarked for a cherished collaboration with the French top guitarist Marc Ducret. An extraordinary alchemy between two innovative, free-spirited natures. Due to the corona measures, the concert at De Bijloke on 9 December was broadcasted via livestream.

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Fanfakids reinvented

Fanfakids reinvented

17/11/2020

New adventures await the Fanfakids. Since this autumn, the percussion workshops have been extended to schools in Molenbeek and the Marolles, veteran Jalel Vangoethem joins the team and both the costumes and the logo of the group underwent a thorough makeover.

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Dia de Muertos 2020 revisited

Dia de Muertos 2020 revisited

03/11/2020

The 3rd edition of Dia de Muertos dans les Marolles was a rather discrete one. This year, the Mexican Day of the dead commemorated the victims of the corona crisis. With the construction of an altar, workshops, intimate concerts and a sober celebration on the Place du Jeu de Balle.

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New corona measures

New corona measures

27/10/2020

MetX temporarily suspends all rehearsals. All concerts of our groups have also been canceled till the start of 2021. We hope all the measures will help decrease the pressure caused by Covid-19 on our health care system. Meanwhile, stay safe and keep in touch via our social media and newsletter!

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Tsoukina leaves MetX

Tsoukina leaves MetX

22/10/2020

Imane Guemssy's project will stand on its own two feet. Thanks to a Carte Blanche from MetX, she gathered a completely female gnawa group around her in 2019. Together, they started to develop a contemporary repertoire. After launching the project at MetX, Imane will now run the group on an independent basis.

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20 Years Zinneke Parade

20 Years Zinneke Parade

13/10/2020

Because of the corona crisis, 20 years of Zinneke will be given an unusual interpretation: a soundscape with testimonies and sounds from participants, Zinnodes organising Simili Parades and a final happening with a.o. BRUiTAL and Fanfakids “Loops”.

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Quetzal dances out off Brussels

Quetzal dances out off Brussels

16/09/2020

No time to rest in the nest for our giant snake! After several summer parades, this autumn the Quetzalcóatl meanders crisscross through Antwerp, Ghent and the Marolles. With in its tracks pupils of primary school De Luchtballon from Merksem, Ledebirds from Ghent and Remork & Karkaba.

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MetX jams at Théâtre National

MetX jams at Théâtre National

15/09/2020

As part of the Saison Libre at Théâtre National, you can jam with Laurent Blondiau and other MetX artists after a number of theater performances. Wanna tune in to a mix of cosmopolitan sounds and vibes? The first sessions of 10/10/20 and 14/01/21 have been canceled, but other jams will take place in early 2021!

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We start rehearsing again!

We start rehearsing again!

09/09/2020

Good news for Bakanaï, BRUiTAL, Fanfakids, Tsoukina and Remork & Karkaba: after an interruption of months we can finally start up the rehearsals again. Of course, with adapted safety measures and colour codes that apply to the cultural sector.

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StaycationBXL: Dance of the Quetzal

StaycationBXL: Dance of the Quetzal

19/08/2020

The mythical giant snake Quetzalcóatl has been slithering through Brussels this summer. With workshops around percussion, voice, costumes and masks in collaboration with CC Brass and Park Poétik + parades along Forest & Saint-Gilles, the Wolvendael Park and Camping Josée.

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StaycationBXL with Karkaba

StaycationBXL with Karkaba

07/07/2020

This summer we've strengthened Karkaba, our training program around gnawa music. In addition to biweekly rehearsals at MetX, we also organised workshops on location as part of StaycationBXL. There was a series for women in collaboration with Buurthuis Anneessens and one for young people in collaboration with We Love BXL.

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MetX Moving Combos

MetX Moving Combos

28/05/2020

The public space was the place to be for enjoying concerts this summer. Our artists proposed three temporary MetX Moving Combos: original formulas featuring 4 musicians from the Brussels global sounds and jazz scene. Acoustic, mobile and 100% corona-proof!

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Mâäk Quintet @ Bel Jazz Fest

Mâäk Quintet @ Bel Jazz Fest

28/05/2020

On 29 and 30 May, the organisers of 11 established jazz festivals joined forces for an online festival. Mâäk Quintet, normally programmed at Brussels Jazz Weekend, performed alongside other big names from the Belgian jazz scene such as De Beren Gieren, Jean-Paul Estiévenart, Esinam and Nabou.

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MetX playlists & mixtapes

MetX playlists & mixtapes

14/05/2020

Alien life, the Bermuda Triangle or the primal sound of MetX... According to science, they must exist even in the absence of hard evidence. Let's give it a try as far as our sound goes: discover the MetX MiXtape and playlists with musical influences from our artists.

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Corona turns agenda upside down

Corona turns agenda upside down

14/05/2020

The social distancing measures oblige MetX to thoroughly review our agenda for 2020. At least until the end of August, many events will be cancelled, moved to a later date or feature alternative formulas like online gatherings and pop-up concerts.

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Coronavirus Measures

Coronavirus Measures

16/03/2020

Given the recent developments regarding the spread of Covid-19, all concerts and rehearsals from MetX groups are canceled. Our annual weekend of residence has been suspended to the Spring of 2021. We are looking for alternative formulas to organise (mini) concerts later this year. More info and updates via our social media and newsletter.

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Tsoukina Try Outs

Tsoukina Try Outs

27/02/2020

March 8 is International Womens’ Day. The ideal occasion for some sneak preview concerts by female gnawa group Tsoukina. On March 7 they play first at the Chaabi Habibi event at UPA, after which they join the all womxn line-up of the Intersections party at VK. Parallel to these try outs, they further develop their repertoire during weekly rehearsals at MetX and a residence at Zinnema in May.

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Mâäk Quintet 2.020

Mâäk Quintet 2.020

10/02/2020

This year the quintet around Laurent Blondiau will once again pull out all the stops. They are preparing for a whole series of concerts in Belgium and abroad. During Brussels Jazz Weekend, they will invite Laïla Amezian, Zouratié Koné and Imane Guemssy with MetX and play for the Journée des Lundis d'Hortense on the Grand Place. And in June they host a brass battle for Fête de la Musique.

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Fanfakids celebrate their 20th anniversary

Fanfakids celebrate their 20th anniversary

09/02/2020

2020 is going to be massive for Fanfakids. With performances and workshops In Belgium and abroad, celebrating their 20th anniversary with Zinneke Parade, a makeover of their outfit by a fashion designer and new international exchanges!

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Zinneke Parade – Loops

Zinneke Parade – Loops

09/02/2020

The Zinneke Parade celebrates its 20th anniversary! For this festive edition Fanfakids, created during the 1st parade in 2000, together with Sysmitos, Ledebirds, Urban Center Brussel, Elastik vzw, WijkAntenne de Quartier (WAQ) and Maison de Quartier 6 Heyvaert (MQ6) form the Zinnode "Loops".

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MetX jams for charity

MetX jams for charity

23/10/2019

On November 30 we organised a MetX Solidarity Jam for Fair Saturday and the charity campaign Brussel Helpt. All night long people enjoyed good music while supporting a good cause. On the menu: a try out by our new group Bakanaï, a sticky jam session and a spaghetti fest for the benefit of DoucheFLUX.

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Dia de Muertos returns to les Marolles

Dia de Muertos returns to les Marolles

09/10/2019

In October MetX participated again at the celebrations of the Mexican Day of the Dead in les Marolles. Young and old joined workshops around a.o. music, dance, decoration and make-up. The climax was a festive parade with music from the Mexican artist Israel Alonso and Remork & Karkaba.

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MetX opens Ghent Gnawa Festival

MetX opens Ghent Gnawa Festival

28/08/2019

From September 14 till October 5, De Centrale organises the first Gnawa festival in Ghent. The kick-off happens during OdeGand with a gnawa parade or ‘Krima’. At the request of De Centrale, MetX invites a large number of gnawa musicians from Brussels, completed by gnawas from Ghent and Antwerp.

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New video and live album MikMâäk

New video and live album MikMâäk

23/08/2019

OUT NOW: MikMâäk #2, the long-awaited follow-up to their debut album from 2015. With live-recorded compositions by Fabian Fiorini, Pascal Rousseau, Samuel Ber and Laurent Blondiau. Release concerts at Recyclart, Handelsbeurs en Théâtre Marni (13/02). And a video clip bathing in typically disarming Mâäk-humour.

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Al-Karavan sets foot at Le Senghor

Al-Karavan sets foot at Le Senghor

07/08/2019

The project Al-Karavan is a series of nomadic musical encounters, paying tribute to the first generation of Moroccan migrants in Belgium. On September 20 and 21 the musicians set foot at Le Senghor in Etterbeek. Featuring a.o. Les Fatmas de Belgica, Laïla Amezian & Les Sheikhs Shikhats and Remork & Karkaba.

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MetX Jam Supreme sessions

MetX Jam Supreme sessions

01/08/2019

MetX goes on tour in Brussels. Together with several cultural partners, we organise open jam sessions on various locations throughout the city. You can join other musicians, both professionals and amateurs, and tune in to a mix of various musical genres.

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Laurent Blondiau creates a new MetX ensemble

Laurent Blondiau creates a new MetX ensemble

10/06/2019

MetX is setting up a new multidisciplinary ensemble. Not just a brass band, but a kind of laboratory where you can experiment and learn as an (amateur) artist. Trumpet player and composer Laurent Blondiau provides the artistic framework. Want to join the project?

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Join the Belgian World Music Network

Join the Belgian World Music Network

17/05/2019

Are you working for a collective, production house, concert venue, festival or other type of organisation with an interest in world music? Than the Belgian World Music Network might be your thing! Join us at the annual World Music Meeting on May 23.

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Remork & Karkaba featuring Koninklijke Harmonie Gullegem

Remork & Karkaba featuring Koninklijke Harmonie Gullegem

18/04/2019

Have you ever heard a harmonic orchestra play gnawa jazz? On the 19th of May, the Royal Harmony Sint-Cecilia Gullegem and our gnawa brassband Remork & Karkaba played a joint performance during the world music festival Kokopelli. An unseen exchange between lively musical traditions from Belgium and Morocco!

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Master class weekend with our musicians

Master class weekend with our musicians

05/04/2019

End of March 2019, we organised a weekend filled with master classes for our musicians. The members of Remork & Karkaba, Ander Brass en BRUiTAL had the opportunity to improve their groups’ repertoires and their individual artistic skills. All three bands also did some try-outs and promising soundclashes. And they even got company from BRUZZ-videoblogger Saïd Al Haddad. Check out some photos and videos below:

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BRUiTAL prepares new sonic tour de force

BRUiTAL prepares new sonic tour de force

15/03/2019

Our punk-style fanfare BRUiTAL is developing a new repertoire. Jo, Vital and their brutal bunch of underground noise makers try out new stuff during pop-up performances at parties and other […]

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MikMâäk records new live album at W:Halll

MikMâäk records new live album at W:Halll

16/01/2019

Early 2019, MikMâäk was resident band at the W:Halll in Woluwe Saint-Pierre (Brussels). Jazz trumpeteer Laurent Blondiau and his fellow musicians have benefited from the occasion to record a new […]

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Highlights of 20 years Mâäk

Highlights of 20 years Mâäk

10/12/2018

Early December, the original partners in crime of Mâäk played four exclusive concerts. This exceptional Mâäk Five reunion concluded the 20th anniversary of the renowned jazz collective. Throughout 2018, Mâäk […]

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Jam @ Pianocktail with Quintette Diminué

Jam @ Pianocktail with Quintette Diminué

30/10/2018

On November 8 a new jam took place at Pianocktail. We invited musicians to join Quintette Diminué, a quintet of four musicians playing five instruments. And trying out countless different […]

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Video: Mâäk KOJO Trailer

Video: Mâäk KOJO Trailer

04/09/2018

Mâäk KOJO is back on tour and this doesn’t go unnoticed! True Blue took some images of their opening concert in Belgium. You can still check them at one of […]

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VelotroniX goes international!

VelotroniX goes international!

23/07/2018

The pounding drums of VelotroniX are going international this summer. From 18 to 20 July, they are travelling to Lake Balaton for the Babel Sound festival in Hungary. In August […]

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Mââk KOJO on Tour!

Mââk KOJO on Tour!

06/07/2018

Mâäk KOJO is coming back to Belgium in september! This is where you can find them: Mâäk KOJO concerts 02.09.2018 – Les Inattendues, Tournai 14.09.2018 – Espace Senghor, Brussels 15.09.2018 […]

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Orfeo & Majnun Parade @ De Munt / La Monnaie

Orfeo & Majnun Parade @ De Munt / La Monnaie

22/06/2018

La Monnaie / De Munt presents Orfeo & Majnun. It blends the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice with the well-known Middle Eastern love story of Layla and Majnun. On June 30, they’re […]

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Fête de La Musique !

Fête de La Musique !

19/06/2018

On June 21, the Marollen distict transforms into a big musical ring, during Fête de la Musique. Fanfares, choirs, rappers, breakdancers and majoretten are confronting each other on the ‘Place […]

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Stage for kids @ Le Senghor: KOJO!

Stage for kids @ Le Senghor: KOJO!

08/06/2018

The cultural center of Etterbeek Le Senghor invites KOJO to give workshops to kids between 6 and 12 years old. The workshops will take place between 20 and 24 august 2018. […]

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Growfunding Fanfakids: we did it!

Growfunding Fanfakids: we did it!

19/03/2018

Fanfakids Go Strange again! The percussion group from Molenbeek is ready for their trip to Togo and Benin this summer. They gathered 104 % (or €4,150) of the desired amount […]

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Mâäk 20 years – Agenda

Mâäk 20 years – Agenda

20/02/2018

In 2018, the jazz collective Mâäk is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a nice series of concerts with: 21.04.2018 – Mâäk Quintet: Journée de propreté, Brussels 04.05.2018 – MikMâäk: De Roma, Antwerp 26.05.2018 […]

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