Name: 'Cutting Keys' - Maalem Youssef & Taylor Higgs GNAWA FUSION ~ March 14th ~ St. Marks Church
Start: 2026-03-14T18:30:00+00:00
Location: St Mark's Church, Hamlet Road, Westcliff on Sea, SS11HY

'Cutting Keys' - Maalem Youssef & Taylor Higgs GNAWA FUSION ~ March 14th ~ St. Marks Church

Maalem Youssef Jandouk from Essaouira, Morocco will be travelling to the UK to join Taylor Higgs for very special performance of Gnawa Fusion.
Gnawa music is a Moroccan genre of Spiritual Trance Music that fuses religious and musical traditions with Arab-Muslim and Amazigh influences. Originating from Saharan Africans brought to Morocco, it is known for its hypnotic rhythms, spiritual lyrics, and unique instruments like the three-stringed Gambre and large iron castanets called Karkabas. The music is often associated with healing rituals and has gained significant national and international recognition.
'Maalem' - In the context of Gnawa music, Maalem refers to a master musician and spiritual leader who guides the group during healing ceremonies known as "lila" similar to that of the priest in gospel music.
Taylor spent time with Maalem Youssef in the hills of Essaouira, Morocco in early 2025 learning about the music and traditions of Gnawa and recording a E.P involving western instrumentation to create a fusion of genres including blues and flamenco to the Gnawa sound
Maalem Youssef spent his childhood surrounded by renowned masters of Gnawa music and was raised into the culture throughout his life. He is a master craftsman of the instruments involved, as well as a master musician and traditional dancer.
*Bring your own drinks*
Traditional Moroccan Mint Tea will be available on the night (with or without alcohol)
This will truly be a special night of music and an experience you will never forget
🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶
Event Details
Doors Open at 6:00PM
Starts at 6:30PM
Location
St. Marks church, westcliff, Essex, SS1 1QA
Ticket Link:
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/tdm/t-oelnyvy
General Admission: £14.00
Pre- show Meet & Greet 'An introduction to Gnawa: £25.00
*This ticket allows you to join an exclusive audience at the venue before the event for a 1-hour personal meet and greet with Maalem Youssef.
He will present an up close demonstration & explanation of the music, history and culture of Gnawa and you will have the oportunity to try the traditional instruments, Including traditional Moroccan Mint Tea (with/without alcohol) - starting at 4pm
This ticket also includes entrance to the concert in the evening.
- Only 16 places available -