AROUNA&ZAZA DIARRA- THE ANCIENT ROOT

Arouna & Zaza Diarra

Arouna & Zaza Diarra are Burkinabè American artists dedicated to sharing the music, culture, and traditions of West Africa through engaging performances, storytelling, education, and handcrafted instruments. Together, they create immersive musical experiences that celebrate cultural heritage, inspire human connection, and invite audiences of all ages to participate in the living traditions of West Africa. They perform traditional songs that explore themes ranging from history and resilience to peace, love, and community. Arouna sings with spirit, nostalgia, and joy in his native Bambara language. His performances are known for their rich improvisation, dynamic rhythms, and expressive musicianship

Originally from Burkina Faso, West Africa, Arouna Diarra is an accomplished Ngoni and balafon virtuoso, master instrument builder, and twelfth-generation griot musician. He performs on the kamale Ngoni, a 14-string West African harp-lute that he handcrafts himself, bringing both melodic beauty and percussive energy to every performance.

Joining him on stage is his wife and musical partner, Azaratou "Zaza" Diarra, whose warm stage presence, percussion, storytelling, and audience engagement bring an interactive dimension to every performance. Together, Arouna and Zaza have become recognized for creating memorable cultural experiences that connect audiences through music, rhythm, and shared participation.

Their performances have been featured at renowned venues including the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) in Phoenix, Crescent Ballroom, schools, libraries, museums, festivals, and community arts programs throughout Arizona. Earlier in his career, Arouna toured extensively with Rising Appalachia, performing across the United States, Canada, and Costa Rica.

Whether performing on a concert stage, in a museum, a library, a school, or an intimate community gathering, Arouna & Zaza bring joy, harmony, and a meaningful connection to the living traditions of West African music.