Saiti Class: Traditional Yawanawa Singing

We are so excited to host Rasu, Turuyume & Anihu Yawanawa for an unforgettable night of sacred music, indigenous art, ayahuasca and visionary plant education, and Amazonian culture. 🌍🎶

This remarkable evening will transcend geographical borders and immerse you in the vibrant spirit of the Brazilian Amazon. This music workshop will be the first offering of its kind in the United States taking place here at the home of the Psychedelic Society of Santa Cruz. Let's gather in community to support and celebrate the Yawanawa people, welcoming in leaders of an indigenous community from the heart of the Brazilian jungle. This is a special and unique opportunity to learn directly from the tribe about their wisdom and traditions.

🎶 Saiti Class

The Saitis are everything to the Yawanawa people. Through sound, they heal themselves and transmit healing to others, as song is the pure expression of joy, a living force that resonates with the soul of their people. Traditionally, it is through Saitis that they connect with their ancestors, keeping alive the memory of who they are and honoring the lineage from which they've come. The Saitis are pathways that open, guiding us on spiritual and healing journeys.

These songs, full of power and wisdom, are carefully and deeply transmitted during the Yawanawa's periods of dieta, where teachings and connection with the spirits are intensified. It is a sacred process, where knowledge is absorbed, respected, and passed on, preserving the tradition and the essence of healing through sound.

Join us for a special Saiti Class with the Yawanawa people, where you'll experience the transformative power of their sacred chants. Through these ancient melodies, they maintain a deep bond with their ancestors.

In this class, you will learn songs passed down through generations, carefully transmitted.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich tradition of Yawanawa songs, discovering the deep healing power of sound. We invite you to join this journey of learning, healing and connection.

🎤 Educational talk

You will expand your understanding of the Yawanawa peoples, an indigenous community from the heart of the Amazon rainforest. This talk will provide valuable insights into their traditions, sacred visionary plant medicines, and the challenges the community faces in preserving their rich cultural heritage. Learn about the rituals and ceremonies that surround sacred medicines in the Yawanawa culture.

🎸Live Music Concert

Let the rhythms and prayers of the rainforest enchant your soul as we present an extraordinary lineup of musicians, each bringing a piece of the Amazon to Santa Cruz. Experience the traditional sounds of the Yawanawa, in a concert that promises to transport you to the heart of the jungle.

🎨 Indigenous Art Market

Explore a curated art market featuring exquisite creations from indigenous artists and artisans. Explore sacred channeled designs and ancient art from the jungle. You can support these talented artists while taking home a piece of the Amazon's rich cultural heritage by acquiring jewelry, rapeh and handcrafted exquisite pieces.

🎙️ Q&A Session

Ask your burning questions and engage in an interactive dialogue with our teachers. Gain a deep understanding of the spiritual ancient wisdom of this community.

Rasu is the grandson of the great medicine man and xinaya Tata Txanu Natasheini, who was one of the most respected elders and wise men of the Yawanawa people. When he was born, Rasu was chosen and raised by Tata to be his successor, and was one of his closest students until Tata passed away a few years back at 103 years old. Rasu speaks his native language fluently and was the youngest Yawanawa to complete the highest spiritual initiation of his people, at only 17 years old. He is currently one of the chiefs of Mutum village, leading the ceremonies and taking care of tribal affairs alongside Chief Matsini. Rasu carries his grandfather’s lineage in his powerful voice and prayers, and he is a very talented multiinstrumentalist musician and composer.

Turuyume Yawanawa, daughter of the great student and artisan Nainawa, wise men of the medicinal plants and medicines of the forest. From an early age she was guided in the path of the medicines of the forest as this is the tradition of her people. Married for 10 years with the leader Pekarasu Yawanawa, she is a dedicated mother of four children and brings her beautiful voice within the Saitis.

Anihu is the younger brother of the leader Rasu Yawanawa and acts as his right-hand man in traditional ceremonies. Son of the great artisan and warrior Tsatsa Wanu, and grandson of the venerable spiritual leader Tatá, Anihu began his journey through the medicines of the forest at age 12. With humility and a powerful voice, he keeps alive the tradition of his lineage in the Saitis.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Green Magic Yoga, 738 Chestnut Street, Santa Cruz, United States