Esaouira, Maálem Said Bounono, Lila Ceremony, Guembri

Said Bounono is known as a Maálem-a master of the Guembri. At 10 years old, he began a lifelong journey studying the Guembri and traditional Gnawa spiritual and ceremonial songs and rhythms. Maálem Bounono plays the Guembri in this video at a Gnawa ceremony called a “Lila.” The Maálem Guembri player is central to the “Lila,” during which the rhythms move some people spiritually into a trance. We were honored to attend the “Lila” and share only portions, including the opening and several songs. Gnawa music is a foundation of Gnawa culture and everyday life. Music is a universal language, and Gnawa music is becoming known worldwide. Shukran to Maálem Said Bounono for his dedication to this Indigenous music as a way of life. Enjoy!