Elsewhere in the world, however, this approach varies hugely. In regions such as Africa and the Asian subcontinent, percussion forms a more prominent role in music, with additional emphasis placed on interaction and participation, as well as employing significantly larger groups of percussionists. Most notable is the use of percussion as an exclusive musical component, featured without the addition of pitched instruments. The approach to percussion playing also varies significantly, with music from these geographical locations utilising musical devices such as complex ‘polyrhythms’ —comprised of multiple rhythms played simultaneously. While hugely enjoyable and intellectually stimulating, world percussion music faces several hurdles in the West, however, most notably the lack of experienced practitioners to help spread knowledge of the genre and a relative shortage of dedicated events. Enter, Trakafest.

This year marks the third edition of the festival, which began life in 2019 at the BMX Warehouse in Pembroke before returning in 2020 —though in an online format owing to COVID-19 restrictions in place at the time (videos and photographs of past editions of the festival may be viewed online at the Trakafest Facebook page). Trakafest aims to bring world percussion to new audiences, as well as providing a valuable platform for Malta’s international percussion and dance communities.

This year’s festival presents a series of workshops featuring tutors including Trakadum leader José Calderón, distinguished Maltese percussionist Benji Cachia AKA Banjo Rancho, Spanish percussionist, producer and educator Antonio Monedero “Toño” and Columbian contemporary dancer Yonna Lizzouli Bernal.