After school programs can be fun, exciting, and filled with music and rhythm!

During drum sessions, each student will use traditionally made West African Djembe drums, hand carved from wood. These drums provide an authentic, high quality sound, and resonant vibration that is sure to keep the group synchronized and grounded in rhythm.

Donté and Shar are professional West African drummers who understand the SEL needs of students and how African drumming teaches kids more than just music. When culture is celebrated, respected, and shared, students begin to model the same integrity in their own self identity, interactions, and relationships. Donte and Shar are true cultural bearers of traditional drumming. This brings needed awareness of different art forms in the world because there is often a lack of qualified traditional artist. As professionals, Donte and Shar continue giving students that opportunity to learn about African culture and values while helping kids develop their skills in musical arts. They teach using positive affirmations, team-based learning, and connect the importance found in each West African rhythm.