The House of Gnaoua

The House of Gnaoua 
A cultural experience in a real Gnaoua family home.

The House of Gnaoua is a Moroccan cultural experience program administered by the Association of Pure Energy Morocco (APEM), which develops cross-cultural exchange projects between Morocco and the international community. Through music, food, and family life, visitors can experience the depth and warmth of real Moroccan culture beyond tourism.

What is The House of Gnaoua?

Immersive experiences beyond tourism — music, food, family & connection
The House of Gnaoua is a cultural home in Marrakech where visitors can experience real Gnaoua life — music, food, family and connection — inside an authentic Gnaoua family home. It’s not a studio and not a restaurant. It’s a warm place where culture is lived, shared, and felt. Here, guests can learn not only about Gnaoua music and traditions, but also about the human spirit, hospitality, and daily life in Morocco.
Contact / Book Inquiry

Experiences at The House of Gnaoua

We currently offer two signature programs:
 

Gnaoua Academy

Introduction to Moroccan music & dance

Experience the power and rhythm of Gnaoua with hands-on practice:

  • Basic qraqeb patterns and stepping
  • Understanding rhythm & movement in the Gnaoua tradition
  • Cultural meaning and background of rituals
  • Small group workshops (2–10 people)
  • No musical experience necessary.
  • All ages welcome.

Gnaoua Academy Website
https://gnaoua-academy.com/marrakech

Gnaoua Kitchen

From market to table with Mama Marrakech

A full cultural food experience guided by Mama Marrakech:

  • Shopping for ingredients at the local market
  • Cooking traditional Moroccan dishes together
  • Eating at the family table with conversation and connection
  • A warm and memorable time with the family
  • Suitable for families, solo travelers, couples, and groups.

小見出し

ここをクリックして表示したいテキストを入力してください。テキストは「右寄せ」「中央寄せ」「左寄せ」といった整列方向、「太字」「斜体」「下線」「取り消し線」、「文字サイズ」「文字色」「文字の背景色」など細かく編集することができます。
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Our Course Menu / Gnaoua Academy

  1. Introduction to Gnaoua Rhythm
    Experience the unique polyrhythms that define Gnaoua music

  2. Try to Play Qarqaba
    Learn the basics of the metal castanets (qarqaba), the heartbeat of Gnaoua percussion.

  3. Try to Play Guembri
    Get hands-on with the three-stringed guembri and feel the deep vibrations of Gnaoua bass.

  4. Try to Step Gnaoua Rhythm
    Master the characteristic footwork that drives Gnaoua trance.

  5. Learn a Gnaoua Song
    Sing traditional Gnaoua chants and connect with the spirit of this ancient music.

  6. Learn a Gnaoua Dance
    Move with the rhythm and embody the energy of Gnaoua movement.

  7. Instrument Shopping Guide
    Get expert advice on buying authentic Gnaoua instruments in Marrakech.

  8. Want to Meet a Gnaoua Master?
    Get introduced to a true Maalem (Gnaoua master) and hear their stories.

  9. Want to Play with a Gnaoua Group?
    Join a live jam session and experience the power of collective rhythm.

  10. Want to Experience Gnaoua Lila?
    Witness or participate in a sacred Lila ceremony, where music meets spirituality.

Download the Gnaoua Academy Program Guide (PDF)

The Space – Venue Introduction

All experiences take place in a real Gnaoua family home.

  • The space is private, intimate, and perfect for small groups.
  • Living room workshop space (music & dance)
  • Kitchen for cooking time
  • Family dining area
  • Moroccan carpets and traditional decor

This is not a commercial facility — it is home, and that is what makes the experience unique and authentic.

Host / Family Introduction

Meet the Family

The House of Gnaoua is hosted by Gnaoua musician Karim Bazzi and his family.

The warmth of Mama and the kindness of the family are at the heart of every experience.

We welcome guests not as customers, but as friends visiting our home.

Pricing & How to Join

Prices depend on group size and selected program.
Please contact us freely for a quote.

  • Small groups welcome (1–8 people)
  • Children welcome
  • Photography allowed unless otherwise noted
  • Length of program varies by experience

Contact for details and available dates

Access

Place Sidi Ayoub
Historic neighborhood of the Marrakech Medina
The House of Gnaoua welcomes guests in a historic neighborhood of the Marrakech Medina, close to Place Sidi Ayoub. The surrounding area is full of authentic daily life, workshops, and family-owned riads.
To make your arrival smooth, please check the Google Map link below.
Upon request, a staff member can meet you at Place Sidi Ayoub and guide you to the house.

Contact & Booking Inquiry

Please share the following in your message:

  • Name
  • Email
  • Number of people
  • Desired program (Academy / Mama / both)
  • Preferred date range
  • Any questions or requests

<Contact>

Karim Bazzi
President, Association of Pure Energy Morocco
E-mail: bazzikarim8@gmail.com
mobile: +212 679-281702
Contact / Book Inquiry

About the Association of Pure Energy Morocco (APEM)

APEM (Association of Pure Energy Morocco) is a non-profit organization devoted to fostering human connection and mutual understanding between Morocco and the world. Its mission is to create opportunities for meaningful cultural exchange through music, arts, food, education, and community-based experiences. By supporting local knowledge, traditional practices, and intercultural dialogue, APEM works to build a future where culture is not only preserved, but shared. The House of Gnaoua is one of its key cultural experience programs.
APEM Website