“Shar and I are professionally acclaimed performers, instructors, and entertainers. We’ve been called the Fresno African Drummers, Libota Mbonda, and the Interactive Drummers because of our dynamic performing skills that connect the audience and participants through rhythm, song, and dance!

Shar and I have trained under Master drummers from West Africa for years. I myself have over 18 years of studying and knowledge in West African Drumming. As African American with ancestors from West Africa, we wanted to share something with students in the Valley that we didn’t have frequently growing up here…… (1) positive experiences of African culture and (2) fun and accessible ways to learn music.

The problem is that West African Drumming is a tradition and is only to be taught by cultural bearers (one who truly dedicates their life to preserving and passing on a tradition). It is often difficult to find qualified artist who are also able to work with students. But since 2014, Shar and I have been blessed to serve as a bridge for our students and community. As dignified cultural bearers, we’ve used the power of West African drumming to serve schools, community organizations, and families all across Fresno and the Central Valley. We love expanding students worldview through cultural arts, bringing music to young kids in an accessible way, and lighting up the stage with powerful drumming!

We truly believe that when we learn about other cultures, we learn the importance of community: to encourage, support, celebrate, and connect with one another. We are more than just drummers, we are educators, musicians, cultural bearers, motivators… and at the core, we are Donté & Shar the African Drummers who strive to live out our calling and uplift people and connect our community through rhythm.”

- Donté the African Drummer