‘…Having grown up in a musical family, my passion for drumming began as a youngin’. I have played Drumkit for over 15 years and have also dabbled in the field of Arabic drumming, and then it was Simon and Mitzi who introduced me to the exciting and energy filled music of West Africa. My affiliation with Melbourne Djembe began around 4 and a half years ago when I began learning to play Djembe. Although I loved it, I was always drawn to the dominant sounds and groundedness of the Dun Duns, and not long after I cashed in my hands for some Dun Dun sticks.
I have had practical experience in the fields of motor mechanics, bike repair, cabinet making/carpentry, welding, teaching, as well as Disability support.
Under the watchful eye of Simon I am now learning the craft of drum making…What better way to combine my passions than by creating instruments that I love to play!’
Loz Dainton
Drum maker
I have played drum kit for over 15 years and it was Simon and Mitzi who introduced me to the exciting music of West Africa. I have had practical experience in the fields of motor mechanics, bike repair, cabinet making/carpentry, welding and teaching. Under the watchful eye of Simon I am now embarking on the craft of drum making…What better way to combine my passions than by creating instruments that I love to play!’
Athena Donohue
Dance Instructor
My thirst for West African dance lead me to Africa in 2005 and 2006 where I studied traditional djembe dance with legendary Mariama Camara from Les Ballet Africans, Guinea’s national dance company. I returned to West Africa in 2007 to study the infectious and provocative Wolof tradition of Sabar dance.
Seydou Sow
Instructor
A vibrant and captivating dancer, talented drummer and beautiful vocalist, Seydou has recently arrived on Australian shores from Senegal. Showing amazing passion and talent in the performing arts, he has been highly sought after to perform around the country
Justin Bourke
Drum Maker/Repairs
Since mid 2007, Justin has learned the crafts of drum making and balafon construction and maintenance. Building, skinning and repairing drums including dun duns, djembes, bongos and congas, Justin has gained experience and knowledge on what makes a great drum.
Tjoni Johansen
Dance Instructor
Tjoni’s focus is on exploring elements of performance art as a medium for self empowerment, spiritual growth, community development and social awareness, as a performer, director and workshop facilitator.
Dan Richardson
Instructor
Dan started playing the flute at aged 10. His musical education includes a Certificate in Jazz performance from NMIT, and an improvisation degree from the Victorian Colleg of the Arts. Daniel adds his original touch to the sound of the West African Kora in the group Casamance (since 2005).
Lamine Sonko
Dance and Drum instructor
Born in Senegal, West Africa, to a family of ‘Griots’ - which means ‘Culture Keepers’ - Lamine began to play music when he was 7 years old. “We are the Griots and have the obligation to pass dances, songs, music and stories to generations.” Lamine grew up in an artistic family. His father, Bouly Sonko, has been the director for Le Ballet National Du Senegal for 30 years, and Lamine’s mother is a well-known Senegalese dancer.