About Us

“African Drumming has the power to bring people together.

No matter what age, background, or color….rhythm connects us.”

— Donté McDaniel

Donté and Shar decided to name themselves “African Drum Interactive” because of their ability to engage students through rhythm.

As a tradition, West African Drumming should only be shared by true cultural bearers. Donte' and Shar’s years of experience and training allow them to preserve the cultural significance found in African Drumming through beginner friendly group drumming, performances, classes, and programming!

For years, it has been their mission to uplift and unify all people, heal our families and communities, and spread joy and culture through African Drumming.

Know that when you book African Drum Interactive, LLC ®, you are booking Donte, Shar, and a loving family of professionals.

Meet the Team

Donté McDaniel

MANAGER AND LEAD DRUMMER

Donte McDaniel is the lead drummer, soloist, and instructor. Donte has continued to connect students and families through group drumming and performances since 2014. 
Donte McDaniel is a certified to teach African traditional arts and is a trained Djembeföla who studied under Djembe Master Mamady “Wadaba” Kourouma. He has also researched, created, and delivered African Drumming programming for: schools, afterschool programs, community health and engagement programs, social justice initiatives, and more.  As someone with a Masters of Social Work with emphasis in Child Welfare, he loves to uplift and encourage students through drumming.
Donte is well-known for his ability to relate African culture in every event, his energetic and powerful djembe playing, and his beginner focused and friendly attitude that allows everyone to feel connected together through the beat!
As a cultural bearer born in the Central Valley, Donte has made it his daily mission to honor his African heritage and ancestry when providing culturally based services. Donte's ancestral family dates back to West Africa, so he upholds this heritage through traditional African Drumming, providing students the opportunitie to learn more about African culture through performances and group drumming.

  • Sharessa McDaniel

    INSTRUCTOR AND DUNUNFÖLA

  • Brendel James

    INSTRUCTOR AND DJEMBEFÖLA

  • Gwendolyn McDaniel

    SUPPORTING ARTIST