In 2026, the BUDA arts centre celebrates its 20th anniversary, and we will be celebrating this for a whole year, on the 20th of every month. Especially for 20 February, Myriam Van Imschoot and the YouYou Group will perform their a cappella performance Segen. Come and listen to traditional Arabic throat sounds!

Youyou is the French word for what is called Zaghareed in Arabic. It is an ancient vocal practice with roots in North and Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East and even the Basque Country. It is a technique in which women produce a high-pitched, vibrating voice by vibrating the throat wall or moving the tongue. This allows them to express intense emotions, such as joy or sadness, loudly and powerfully. The Brussels vocal ensemble has developed its own unique signature, with the performers using their vibrating voices to create thrilling, unexpected polyphonies.

Segen

Segen is an a cappella performance, without amplification. It is an invitation to listen to a place. How are the acoustic and other sonic characteristics of a place shaped by architecture, urban history, and social reality? How can a musical piece, through its form and intention, simultaneously reveal and transform a place?

Sound artist Myriam Van Imschoot has been fascinated by the impact of the youyou cry for years. She develops artistic projects with local performers, combining respect for tradition with openness to new interpretations. This is how the Brussels YouYou Group came into being.

The twenties

Every 20th of the month, you can expect something special. Sometimes we serve up a little surprise, other times an exuberant party. Curious about the next twentieth? Keep an eye on us!