Where to listen to Gnawa music in Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or the Dadès Valley?

As-salamu alaykum!

We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...

Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)

Thanks in advance for your tips!

Mathieu

Hi there, In Marrakech, you should find what you're looking for at the Souk Kimakhine (souk of traditional musical instruments). This souk is located behind the Mouassine Mosque, which is itself on this street. You'll find luthier artisans and, of course, workshops there. Outside of Marrakech and along the route you'll be taking, I don’t see any other spots. Otherwise, to listen to Gnawa music in Marrakech, groups play in the evening at Jemaa el-Fna square. Alternatively, every Friday at 6 PM, the Museum of Music offers a Gnawa music concert (tickets can be booked on their website). Bye, Claire

Hi Claire, thanks!

Yeah, I’d noted Jemaa el-Fna Square, thanks ;) We’re planning to explore the luthier district in search of a guembri! If you have any addresses or recommendations, we’d love to hear them. Also, what’s a reasonable price for a guembri? We found the address of a maalem luthier in Daoudiat we’re going to meet. We won’t be in Marrakech on Friday, but thanks for sharing that info—I hadn’t found it anywhere! For those who love Gnawa music, note that Marrakech hosts the Gnaoua Marrakech Festival, happening this year on May 8th and 9th! Ironically, our return flight is on the morning of the 8th! 😅

Have a great evening!