Nikita, also known as Dj Niki Tao, is a free-spirited nomad. His transformative journey commenced in India, where he resided for a profound year and a half, immersing himself in the practices of yoga, bhakti yoga, tantra, meditation, and mastering the enchanting art of playing the Bansuri, an Indian bamboo flute. Throughout the past decade, Nikita has delved into various disciplines, including the Wim Hof method, diverse breathwork techniques, Vipassana meditation, the ethereal art of overtone singing, and the exhilarating realm of Ecstatic Dance. Singing and dancing have perpetually been integral components of his existence and he holds the unwavering belief that the art of dancing and singing resides within each and every person. Driven by this belief, Nikita aspires to cultivate environments where people can liberate themselves from inhibitions and societal constraints, embracing their raw emotions and expressing their truest selves. This harmonious connection to the core of our being, as we are, lies at the heart of his mission.
Within the festival setting, Nikita assumes the role of coordinator for the Mystic Lounge stage where he curates a mystical ambiance through his selection of multicultural downtempo music. Moreover, he orchestrates interactive sound journeys, singing sessions, and jam circles, aiming to dissolve the boundaries between performer and participant, allowing each individual to embrace their artistic potential. In Nikita’s vision, every person becomes an artist, where the collective experience transcends conventional roles and fosters a profound sense of unity.
Offerings
Estatic Dance
Being a DJ over a decade, he discovered ecstatic dance during his second visit of Arambol, Goa in 2017 and since then have been developing, reshaping and expanding his understanding of it, experimenting and finding optimal approach in DJ-ing and facilitating, helping people connect with their bodies and express themselves freely through movement.
On the dance floor Niki Tao serves up a fusion of different genres and in his eclectic sets you can here organic downtempo, bass and trap, disco, ethno-jungle tribal and global beats often along with his overtone-singing and Bansuri (Indian flute) playing.
Singing and Jam circles
Singing circle is is a form of group singing that emphasizes participation, inclusivity, and collaboration. In a singing circle, there is usually no hierarchy of performers or audience members, and everyone is encouraged to participate and contribute to the music-making. While holding space, Nikita usually offers variety of game-like songs and canons as a warm-up to tune-in. Participants sit in a circle or semi-circle and take turns leading songs or choosing songs for the group to sing together. The songs can be from any tradition or style, and may be accompanied by instruments or sung a cappella. The focus of a singing circle is not on achieving perfect harmonies or polished performances, but rather on creating a shared musical experience and a sense of community. Participants are encouraged to listen to and support one another, and to allow the music to flow naturally and organically.
