Educational, interactive school drum circle and dance. music experts, wedding enthusiasts, and party starters. African music ensemble specializing in high -energy music for festivals, corporate – events, and private functions at a sensible price. We infuse evry event with energy and fun and pride ourselves on filling dance floors.
The Drums of the Mandingue — A Living Tradition
🪘 Drums of the Mandingue Empire — A Living Tradition
Rooted in the ancient Mandingue Empire of West Africa, these drums carry centuries of history, spiritual meaning, and ancestral language. Crafted by a traditional family of blacksmiths, each drum embodies knowledge passed down through generations.
Since the 13th century, Mandingue drums have played an essential role in community life—marking births, supporting healing practices, strengthening social bonds, and creating a living connection to ancestral spirits. More than instruments, they are carriers of culture, memory, and identity.
Through my teaching, I guide students in bringing out the traditional and ancestral voices of these drums while encouraging personal expression. Participants are invited to develop their own style with respect for the original rhythms, meanings, and cultural context.
Whether you are new to drumming or deepening your practice, this is an opportunity to learn, connect, and experience a living tradition.
All are welcome.
Lifelong Learners Program
Cultural Exploration for Every Age and Stage
At the African Cultural Arts Institute (ACAI), we believe learning doesn’t stop after school. Our Lifelong Learners Program is designed for adults who are passionate about personal growth, cultural discovery, and meaningful connection.
Whether you’re a teacher, artist, traveler, retiree, or simply curious—this program invites you to explore the living traditions of Africa through dynamic, engaging experiences.
We Offer
African Cultural Arts Institute (ACAI) offers a range of programs and services designed to preserve, promote, and share the cultural richness of Africa—especially through music, dance, and storytelling. Our offerings serve individuals, schools, organizations, and communities both in the U.S. and in Africa.
1. Cultural Arts Education
- Drum, Dance & Flute Classes (In-person & online)
Learn traditional West African rhythms, movements, and melodies from master artists. - School & University Programs
Cultural enrichment workshops, performances, and residencies for students of all ages. - Community Workshops
Open-level classes and drum circles that build connection through rhythm.
2. Cultural Exchange & Heritage Travel
- Guinea Cultural Arts Tour
A life-changing immersion in traditional music, dance, language, and village life.
Next Tour: December 27, 2025 – January 15, 2026. - Artist Exchange & Residency Programs
Bringing Guinean artists to the U.S. and supporting U.S.-based artists to study in Africa.
3. Performances & Presentations
- Traditional Music & Dance Performances
Featuring authentic drumming, dancing, and flute from the Mandé, Fula, and Susu traditions. - Storytelling & Oral Tradition
Griot-led performances, history sharing, and ceremonial arts for festivals and institutions. - Lecture-Demonstrations
Educational presentations on African music, instruments, and cultural history.
4. Village-Based Enterprise & Cultural Products
- RizDirect Village Market
Rice buying club and rural sustainability initiative in Guinea. - African Instruments & Crafts
Handmade flutes, drums, clothing, and artisan goods available for purchase or fundraising.
5. Consulting & Collaborations
- Curriculum & Program Development
For schools, nonprofits, and cultural institutions. - Event Partnerships
Supporting festivals, museums, and multicultural events with programming rooted in African heritage. - Cultural Consulting
Guidance on integrating authentic African arts into education, wellness, or community-building initiatives.
Educational Interactive drumming with kids at Fenderson Recreation Center 2023
Group practice:
Location
2040 West Henderson, Rd Columbus, Ohio 43220 Time: 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Private lessons for same level
- Price varies depending on the location.
$45 /hr at my location - $ 55 /hr at your location or somewhere else on half hour driving from my location
- Private lessons are one hour (first one is usually 70 mn). They are customized to your level and what you want to do with djembe! Things that may include would be:
- Getting three clearer sounds (Slap, Tone, Bass)
- dununs – alternate bell parts
- improvisation
- singing traditional songs of the rhythms
- traditional djembe rhythms
- playing in alternative settings (poetry, with guitars and and other non-drum instruments)
- effectively drumming for Yoga
If you are more interested in learning especially West African (Guinea) Rhythms from my homeland –
What you’ll learn
The basics of how to play the djembe, through to a full polyrhythmic Guinean rhythm
A serval Guineans rhythm:
- Kuku – traditional fishing rhythm
- Kassa – traditional farming rhythm
- Djaa – Youth rhythm
- Sofa – Warrior rhythm before colonisation in Africa
- Soli – Happy mother dance for initiations.
- Tiriba – Initiation rhythm etc…
- History and cultural context of Djembe and the rhythm we are learning
- Some basic solo ideas.
