Special workshop with Yalani Bangoura Wednesday June 8th, 2016 7:30 - 9:00 pm, Sliding scale $15-20.
Live drumming with Raoul Ombang and Kabisko Kaba
Yalani Bangoura is a master dancer, performer, choreographer, acrobat, and teacher of dances from his country, Guinea, West Africa. He is also known for his exciting hip-hop dance. Yalani was a member of the award winning West African dance and drum company, Les Merveilles de Guinea under the direction of Mr. Kemoko Sano, former choreographer for the legendary Les Ballet Africains of the Republic of Guinea. In addition to studying with Sano, who is considered one of the most recognized authorities on West African culture, Yalani has also studied with Yamoussa Soumah, a principal dancer and teacher with Les Ballet Africains. He has toured with Merveilles in the United States and Europe and has also toured West Africa including the countries of Mali, Guinea, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast. Yalani now works as an independent contractor and continues to be in residence with several dance companies as a master artist.
Live drumming with Raoul Ombang and Kabisko Kaba
Yalani Bangoura is a master dancer, performer, choreographer, acrobat, and teacher of dances from his country, Guinea, West Africa. He is also known for his exciting hip-hop dance. Yalani was a member of the award winning West African dance and drum company, Les Merveilles de Guinea under the direction of Mr. Kemoko Sano, former choreographer for the legendary Les Ballet Africains of the Republic of Guinea. In addition to studying with Sano, who is considered one of the most recognized authorities on West African culture, Yalani has also studied with Yamoussa Soumah, a principal dancer and teacher with Les Ballet Africains. He has toured with Merveilles in the United States and Europe and has also toured West Africa including the countries of Mali, Guinea, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast. Yalani now works as an independent contractor and continues to be in residence with several dance companies as a master artist.
Special workshop with Sekou Sylla
Wednesday September 23rd, 2015
7:15 - 9:00 pm at The Brattleboro Stone Church!
Live drumming with Raoul Ombang and Ade Bayo!
The cost is on a sliding scale from $15-20.
SEKOU SYLLA is a master dancer & musician from Guinea, West Africa. He was a principle dancer, acrobat and musician with Les Ballet Africains, the National Dance Company of the Republic of Guinea, West Africa, until relocating to Massachusetts in 1996. For over 20 years he performed and taught first with Ballet Djoliba then with Les Ballets Africains. He has taught and performed all over the world including Africa, Australia, Europe, Spain, Korea, Finland, France, England, Mexico, Russia, China, Canada and North and South America. Since relocating to the USA Sekou has taught African dance and music in Bahia, Brazil at the Universidade Federal da Bahia and at Male Du Bale. In 2009 he did a performing and teaching tour in Caguas, Guayama and Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
He teaches African drumming at Mt Holyoke College and is a Five College musician. He has taught dance at Greenfield Comm. College, Mt. Holyoke & Smith College and the University of Massachusetts; Skidmore College in Saratogoa Springs, NY; Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama; Ursinus College, Collegeville, PA and has acted in theatre at California Technical Institute in California. He has taught several times at the Bates College Dance Festival in Lewiston, Maine; has taught and performed for six years at Drika Overton's Percussive Dance Festival in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and is a teaching artist with the Sankofa Dance Project at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Mass. He has also performed and taught at various venues in the United States, Brazil and Puerto Rico.
Wednesday September 23rd, 2015
7:15 - 9:00 pm at The Brattleboro Stone Church!
Live drumming with Raoul Ombang and Ade Bayo!
The cost is on a sliding scale from $15-20.
SEKOU SYLLA is a master dancer & musician from Guinea, West Africa. He was a principle dancer, acrobat and musician with Les Ballet Africains, the National Dance Company of the Republic of Guinea, West Africa, until relocating to Massachusetts in 1996. For over 20 years he performed and taught first with Ballet Djoliba then with Les Ballets Africains. He has taught and performed all over the world including Africa, Australia, Europe, Spain, Korea, Finland, France, England, Mexico, Russia, China, Canada and North and South America. Since relocating to the USA Sekou has taught African dance and music in Bahia, Brazil at the Universidade Federal da Bahia and at Male Du Bale. In 2009 he did a performing and teaching tour in Caguas, Guayama and Old San Juan, Puerto Rico.
He teaches African drumming at Mt Holyoke College and is a Five College musician. He has taught dance at Greenfield Comm. College, Mt. Holyoke & Smith College and the University of Massachusetts; Skidmore College in Saratogoa Springs, NY; Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama; Ursinus College, Collegeville, PA and has acted in theatre at California Technical Institute in California. He has taught several times at the Bates College Dance Festival in Lewiston, Maine; has taught and performed for six years at Drika Overton's Percussive Dance Festival in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and is a teaching artist with the Sankofa Dance Project at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, Mass. He has also performed and taught at various venues in the United States, Brazil and Puerto Rico.
Sayon Camara is an exemplary djembe and dunun drummer, musician, performer, teacher and keeper of the traditional village music of his homeland in Guinea, West Africa. He operates with boundless energy and a deep and abiding respect for life and the music he stewards. Sayon carries an intimate knowledge of traditional drumming music as well as the songs and stories of his people. With the spirit of an angel he delivers a sound that is as clear as a bell with an impeccable sense of time. After studying intensively for a decade with Famoudou Konate and playing for and teaching in his workshops, as well as being heard on many of Famoudou's CD's, Sayon now resides in Woodstock VT and offers weekly drumming classes in White River Junction, VT and New London NH as well as private instruction and workshops taught throughout New England and the US, and in Canada, Guinea and Japan. See Sayon's web site for more info.
Yalani Bangoura is a master dancer, performer, choreographer, acrobat, and teacher of dances from his country, Guinea, West Africa. He is also known for his exciting hip-hop dance. Yalani was a member of the award winning West African dance and drum company, Les Merveilles de Guinea under the direction of Mr. Kemoko Sano, former choreographer for the legendary Les Ballet Africains of the Republic of Guinea. In addition to studying with Sano, who is considered one of the most recognized authorities on West African culture, Yalani has also studied with Yamoussa Soumah, a principal dancer and teacher with Les Ballet Africains. He has toured with Merveilles in the United States and Europe and has also toured West Africa including the countries of Mali, Guinea, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast. Yalani now works as an independent contractor and continues to be in residence with several dance companies as a master artist.
Yalani Bangoura is a master dancer, performer, choreographer, acrobat, and teacher of dances from his country, Guinea, West Africa. He is also known for his exciting hip-hop dance. Yalani was a member of the award winning West African dance and drum company, Les Merveilles de Guinea under the direction of Mr. Kemoko Sano, former choreographer for the legendary Les Ballet Africains of the Republic of Guinea. In addition to studying with Sano, who is considered one of the most recognized authorities on West African culture, Yalani has also studied with Yamoussa Soumah, a principal dancer and teacher with Les Ballet Africains. He has toured with Merveilles in the United States and Europe and has also toured West Africa including the countries of Mali, Guinea, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast. Yalani now works as an independent contractor and continues to be in residence with several dance companies as a master artist.
Souleymane Solo Sana is an accomplished traditional dancer from Mali, West Africa. A principal member for one of the premiere companies of Mali, Ballet Du District de Bamako. Solo’s presence at local ceremonies and festivals is in high demand, performing with renown griots and musicians. He has also performed with internationally known artists such as Djeneba Seck and Oumou Sangare.With an extensive knowledge of traditional dances of the Mande culture he is has become a highly sought after instructor for private and group lessons. Solo has taught students from France, Italy, US, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, and other countries of Africa. Most notable he has instructed internationally acclaimed dancers from the US that include university instructors and Broadway performers. He is currently performing, teaching workshops and leading school residencies for Jeh Kulu Dance in Drum Theater, at the University of Vermont as well as independently. Recently he has participated in a cultural exchange in Liberia working with local artists who are reviving their music and dance scene after more than a decade of struggle due to a 13 year civil war. He made his choreographic premiere in New York City in the Spring of 2014. |
Moussa Traore teaches a special drum workshop from 6:15 - 7:15 sliding scale $12-15
Solo Sana teaches a special dance workshop from 7:15 - 9:00 sliding scale $15-20 Both workshops Wednesday May 6th, 2015 Moussa Traore was born and raised in Mali, West Africa. He has been playing the djembe for over thirty years, and in 1984, after completing a twelve-year apprenticeship, he was deemed a "master" by his teacher, Sega Cisse. Moussa has achieved great recognition throughout Mali as an accomplished musician in the theater, in traditional ceremonies, as well as in the Malian pop scene. Among musicians in Bamako, Moussa is considered to be one of the top djembe players in the country. Since moving to the U.S., Moussa has continued to distinguish himself as a highly respected teacher and performer. He has given drum workshops in cities throughout the U.S. Currently, he is teaching at schools, offering weekly community classes, leading drum ensembles for West African dance classes, and performing for special events and workshops. |
Pape N'Diaye teaches a special dance workshop
Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 from 7:15 - 9:00 pm!
sliding scale $15-20 All levels welcome
A multi-talented artist from Dakar, Senegal, Alioune “Pape” N’Diaye is a seasoned performer (song, dance, and percussion), instructor, and choreographer in Djembe, Kutiro, Sabar, Modern, and African contemporary dance forms. He has been a member of numerous acclaimed Senegalese traditional and contemporary dance companies, including the National Ballet of Senegal, Cinquihme Dimension, Ballet Sinomew, Forêt Sacrée, and Manhattan Dance School. Pape N'Diaye is also a former lead dancer for Jant-Bi where he choreographed pieces for the award winning FAGAALA. Pape is also the founder and director of the recently acclaimed Les Enfants du Soleil African Dance Theater. Pape also hosts the Annual Ndaje Festival of African Music and Dance, the largest African dance and drum celebration in Boston! He teaches weekly classes at the Dance Complex in Cambridge and during the Ndaje Dance Festival. Don't miss the opportunity to study with Pape in Brattleboro!
Wednesday April 22nd, 2015 from 7:15 - 9:00 pm!
sliding scale $15-20 All levels welcome
A multi-talented artist from Dakar, Senegal, Alioune “Pape” N’Diaye is a seasoned performer (song, dance, and percussion), instructor, and choreographer in Djembe, Kutiro, Sabar, Modern, and African contemporary dance forms. He has been a member of numerous acclaimed Senegalese traditional and contemporary dance companies, including the National Ballet of Senegal, Cinquihme Dimension, Ballet Sinomew, Forêt Sacrée, and Manhattan Dance School. Pape N'Diaye is also a former lead dancer for Jant-Bi where he choreographed pieces for the award winning FAGAALA. Pape is also the founder and director of the recently acclaimed Les Enfants du Soleil African Dance Theater. Pape also hosts the Annual Ndaje Festival of African Music and Dance, the largest African dance and drum celebration in Boston! He teaches weekly classes at the Dance Complex in Cambridge and during the Ndaje Dance Festival. Don't miss the opportunity to study with Pape in Brattleboro!
Join us for a very special weekend of Zumba and dance classes with visiting master Senegalese dancer, teacher and choreographer, Caro Diallo! See flyer for dates, times and costs. Tickets available at the door, or use Paypal dropdown menu below:
Caro is a certified Zumba teacher and teaches Zumba incorporating his artful style of African dance. Caro is also offering both beginning and advanced dance classes. Caro is director, choreographer and lead dancer of the Senegalese dance troupe, Black Soofa. hailing from the lush Casamance region of Senegal on the west coast of Africa, where he has been dancing since childhood. After intensive training with various dance masters in Dakar, Diallo joined the ballet troupe Foret Sacree, performing throughout West Africa. Diallo has the gift of inspiring his students and captivating them with his energy and with the finesse and elegance of his dancing. In a warm-up students rave about, he provides an entire vocabulary of African movements. An accomplished teacher, he systematically builds up phrase after phrase of the dance, day after day, until students find themselves actually performing the entire choreography. To learn more about Caro Diallo and his dance camp in Abene, Senegal see www.carodiallo.com
This is the last opportunity to dance with Caro before he heads to Senegal for his winter dance camp.
We want to thank C & S Wholesale Grocers and Lotus Graphics for their
generous contribution of printing posters for this workshop.
Caro is a certified Zumba teacher and teaches Zumba incorporating his artful style of African dance. Caro is also offering both beginning and advanced dance classes. Caro is director, choreographer and lead dancer of the Senegalese dance troupe, Black Soofa. hailing from the lush Casamance region of Senegal on the west coast of Africa, where he has been dancing since childhood. After intensive training with various dance masters in Dakar, Diallo joined the ballet troupe Foret Sacree, performing throughout West Africa. Diallo has the gift of inspiring his students and captivating them with his energy and with the finesse and elegance of his dancing. In a warm-up students rave about, he provides an entire vocabulary of African movements. An accomplished teacher, he systematically builds up phrase after phrase of the dance, day after day, until students find themselves actually performing the entire choreography. To learn more about Caro Diallo and his dance camp in Abene, Senegal see www.carodiallo.com
This is the last opportunity to dance with Caro before he heads to Senegal for his winter dance camp.
We want to thank C & S Wholesale Grocers and Lotus Graphics for their
generous contribution of printing posters for this workshop.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Moussa Traore was born and raised in Mali, West Africa. He has been playing the djembe for over thirty years, and in 1984, after completing a twelve-year apprenticeship, he was deemed a "master" by his teacher, Sega Cisse. Moussa has achieved great recognition throughout Mali as an accomplished musician in the theater, in traditional ceremonies, as well as in the Malian pop scene. Among musicians in Bamako, Moussa is considered to be one of the top djembe players in the country. Since moving to the U.S., Moussa has continued to distinguish himself as a highly respected teacher and performer. He has given drum workshops in cities throughout the U.S. Currently, he is teaching at schools, offering weekly community classes, leading drum ensembles for West African dance classes, and performing for special events and workshops.
Souleymane Solo Sana is an accomplished traditional dancer from Mali, West Africa. A principal member for one of the premiere companies of Mali, Ballet Du District de Bamako. Solo’s presence at local ceremonies and festivals is in high demand, performing with renown griots and musicians. He has also performed with internationally known artists such as Djeneba Seck and Oumou Sangare.With an extensive knowledge of traditional dances of the Mande culture he is has become a highly sought after instructor for private and group lessons. Solo has taught students from France, Italy, US, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, and other countries of Africa. Most notable he has instructed internationally acclaimed dancers from the US that include university instructors and Broadway performers. He is currently performing, teaching workshops and leading school residencies for Jeh Kulu Dance in Drum Theater, at the University of Vermont as well as independently. Recently he has participated in a cultural exchange in Liberia working with local artists who are reviving their music and dance scene after more than a decade of struggle due to a 13 year civil war. He is looking forward to making his choreographic premiere in New York City in the Spring of 2014.
Souleymane Solo Sana is an accomplished traditional dancer from Mali, West Africa. A principal member for one of the premiere companies of Mali, Ballet Du District de Bamako. Solo’s presence at local ceremonies and festivals is in high demand, performing with renown griots and musicians. He has also performed with internationally known artists such as Djeneba Seck and Oumou Sangare.With an extensive knowledge of traditional dances of the Mande culture he is has become a highly sought after instructor for private and group lessons. Solo has taught students from France, Italy, US, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, and other countries of Africa. Most notable he has instructed internationally acclaimed dancers from the US that include university instructors and Broadway performers. He is currently performing, teaching workshops and leading school residencies for Jeh Kulu Dance in Drum Theater, at the University of Vermont as well as independently. Recently he has participated in a cultural exchange in Liberia working with local artists who are reviving their music and dance scene after more than a decade of struggle due to a 13 year civil war. He is looking forward to making his choreographic premiere in New York City in the Spring of 2014.
Special guest teacher Tacko Cissokho will teach on Wednesday July 30th, 2014!
From 7:15 to 9:00. Sliding scale from $15-20
Tacko Cissokho began studying dance as a child in Senegal, West Africa. She has danced with the most prominent dance companies and singers throughout Senegal and led the Ballet Nationale du Senegal; touring internationally for over twenty-five years. She has taught dance workshops across the United States and taught in Brattleboro in 2011. We are thrilled and honored to have her back.
Tacko will be teaching classes and participating in the performance at the Abene Festival August 22 -24!
Special guest teachers Moussa Traore and Solo Sana will teach on
Wednesday June 18th, 2014
Moussa's drum class will be from 6:30 - 7:30
sliding scale from $12-15
Solo's dance class will be from 7:30 - 9:00 pm
sliding scale from $15-20
All levels welcome
Moussa Traore was born and raised in Mali, West Africa. He has been playing the djembe for over thirty years, and in 1984, after completing a twelve-year apprenticeship, he was deemed a "master" by his teacher, Sega Cisse. Moussa has achieved great recognition throughout Mali as an accomplished musician in the theater, in traditional ceremonies, as well as in the Malian pop scene. Among musicians in Bamako, Moussa is considered to be one of the top djembe players in the country. Since moving to the U.S., Moussa has continued to distinguish himself as a highly respected teacher and performer. He has given drum workshops in cities throughout the U.S. Currently, he is teaching at schools, offering weekly community classes, leading drum ensembles for West African dance classes, and performing for special events and workshops.
Souleymane Solo Sana is an accomplished traditional dancer from Mali, West Africa. A principal member for one of the premiere companies of Mali, Ballet Du District de Bamako, he has proven himself as a leader among the artists. Solo’s presence at local ceremonies and festivals is in high demand, performing with renown griots and musicians. He has also performed with internationally known artists such as Djeneba Seck and Oumou Sangare. With an extensive knowledge of traditional dances of the Mande culture he is has become a highly sought after instructor for private and group lessons. Solo has taught students from France, Italy, US, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, and other countries of Africa. Most notable he has instructed internationally acclaimed dancers from the United States that include university instructors and Broadway performers. He is currently in the US performing, teaching workshops and leading school residencies for Jeh Kulu Dance in Drum Theater, at the University of Vermont as well as independently. In 2012 he was a featured Artist in Residence at UNC-Greensboro creating original choreography for Robin Gee’s Sugarfoote Productions. Recently he has participated in a cultural exchange in Liberia working with local artists who are reviving their music and dance scene after more than a decade of struggle due to a 13 year civil war. He is looking forward to making his choreographic premiere in New York City in the Spring of 2014.
Wednesday June 18th, 2014
Moussa's drum class will be from 6:30 - 7:30
sliding scale from $12-15
Solo's dance class will be from 7:30 - 9:00 pm
sliding scale from $15-20
All levels welcome
Moussa Traore was born and raised in Mali, West Africa. He has been playing the djembe for over thirty years, and in 1984, after completing a twelve-year apprenticeship, he was deemed a "master" by his teacher, Sega Cisse. Moussa has achieved great recognition throughout Mali as an accomplished musician in the theater, in traditional ceremonies, as well as in the Malian pop scene. Among musicians in Bamako, Moussa is considered to be one of the top djembe players in the country. Since moving to the U.S., Moussa has continued to distinguish himself as a highly respected teacher and performer. He has given drum workshops in cities throughout the U.S. Currently, he is teaching at schools, offering weekly community classes, leading drum ensembles for West African dance classes, and performing for special events and workshops.
Souleymane Solo Sana is an accomplished traditional dancer from Mali, West Africa. A principal member for one of the premiere companies of Mali, Ballet Du District de Bamako, he has proven himself as a leader among the artists. Solo’s presence at local ceremonies and festivals is in high demand, performing with renown griots and musicians. He has also performed with internationally known artists such as Djeneba Seck and Oumou Sangare. With an extensive knowledge of traditional dances of the Mande culture he is has become a highly sought after instructor for private and group lessons. Solo has taught students from France, Italy, US, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, and other countries of Africa. Most notable he has instructed internationally acclaimed dancers from the United States that include university instructors and Broadway performers. He is currently in the US performing, teaching workshops and leading school residencies for Jeh Kulu Dance in Drum Theater, at the University of Vermont as well as independently. In 2012 he was a featured Artist in Residence at UNC-Greensboro creating original choreography for Robin Gee’s Sugarfoote Productions. Recently he has participated in a cultural exchange in Liberia working with local artists who are reviving their music and dance scene after more than a decade of struggle due to a 13 year civil war. He is looking forward to making his choreographic premiere in New York City in the Spring of 2014.
African Dance Workshop and the Dance of Life with Wyoma on March 29th
African Dance Vermont is excited to welcome to Brattleboro for the first time, healer and master dancer, Wyoma who hails from Boston. She will be leading an African dance workshop, accompanied by live drummers, Lisa Newell and Jamemurrell (Jay) Stanley, on Saturday March 29th, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at the Stone Church on Main Street, in Brattleboro. The cost is on a sliding scale from $20-30.
This is no ordinary African dance workshop! "Umoja, Dance of Abundance" is the dance and practice of enoughness with songs that call the Ancestors. It is dance that stokes fire in the belly. The three hour workshop will integrate African dance, cycles of life movement, improvisation, yoga, and writing (please bring a journal). In a non-judgmental atmosphere, you will be able to express yourself freely, relax in your body, sweat, reflect, and have fun! Central to Wyoma's approach is the recognition of our bodies' own inherent wisdom. She honors dance as a transformational and spiritual endeavor. It is available to everyone and no experience is
necessary. It is the dance of life!
Wyoma is a holistic healer and master dancer who offers classes, workshops, and trainings in this holistic integrated model of movement and
healing. She has traveled and taught extensively in all parts of Africa. For over 40 years, she has performed and conducted workshops throughout the US and internationally; offering a huge creative canvas to explore the human and divine forces of nature through African, Caribbean, and Brazilian dance. Her mission is to help restore, preserve, and maintain these rich African traditions. She is also the co-founder of Ngoma Drum and Dance in Boston, Massachusetts. To learn more about Wyoma and watch the African Healing Dance DVD that she created and performs in, see her website www.wyomadance.com.
Percussionist Lisa Newell has been immersed in Roots music of West Africa for over 15 years, having traveled to the region 5 times to study and perform with master drummers and dancers. Having just returned from another trip to Senegal, Lisa is full of vibrancy and passion more than ever. She has played for hundreds of African dance classes over the years; and she is the director, founder, and primary teacher of the Jaama Rek Drum School in Brattleboro where she teaches weekly classes for all levels in djembe and doun doun. Lisa performs all over New England with the all-female, folkloric drum, dance, and vocal ensemble Gaia Roots and a new project locally with ShaktiPops, a Kirtin ensemble. In addition to being a drummer, Lisa maintains a private practice, in Brattleboro, as a body/mind and trauma-resolution therapist for the past 15 years.
Before Jamemurrell Stanley was able to walk or talk, he sang the rhythms that he heard while at drum and dance class with his mother. By age 14 he
traveled to Senegal, West Africa to expand his knowledge of African culture and music. He studied with Senegalese master drummer Ibraham Camara, the former drummer for the National Ballet of Senegal. He also studied under Jah Amen And Leon Mobley, students of Nigerian master drummer Babatunde Olatunji. Jamemurrell attended Boston Arts Academy where he transformed himself into a total percussionist. In 2010 Jamemurrell released his debut album, "Sketches Of Africa". Following in the steps of his mentor Babatunde Olatunji, who played for many years with Santana and other popular artists of the day, Jamemurrell has succeeded in bringing African drumming into contemporary mainstream music. He has performed and
recorded with many major artists in all genres and has toured in Europe, the Caribbean and all over the United States.
For more information see www.africandancevt.com, African Dance Vermont on Facebook, or call 802-380-5152.
African Dance Vermont is excited to welcome to Brattleboro for the first time, healer and master dancer, Wyoma who hails from Boston. She will be leading an African dance workshop, accompanied by live drummers, Lisa Newell and Jamemurrell (Jay) Stanley, on Saturday March 29th, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at the Stone Church on Main Street, in Brattleboro. The cost is on a sliding scale from $20-30.
This is no ordinary African dance workshop! "Umoja, Dance of Abundance" is the dance and practice of enoughness with songs that call the Ancestors. It is dance that stokes fire in the belly. The three hour workshop will integrate African dance, cycles of life movement, improvisation, yoga, and writing (please bring a journal). In a non-judgmental atmosphere, you will be able to express yourself freely, relax in your body, sweat, reflect, and have fun! Central to Wyoma's approach is the recognition of our bodies' own inherent wisdom. She honors dance as a transformational and spiritual endeavor. It is available to everyone and no experience is
necessary. It is the dance of life!
Wyoma is a holistic healer and master dancer who offers classes, workshops, and trainings in this holistic integrated model of movement and
healing. She has traveled and taught extensively in all parts of Africa. For over 40 years, she has performed and conducted workshops throughout the US and internationally; offering a huge creative canvas to explore the human and divine forces of nature through African, Caribbean, and Brazilian dance. Her mission is to help restore, preserve, and maintain these rich African traditions. She is also the co-founder of Ngoma Drum and Dance in Boston, Massachusetts. To learn more about Wyoma and watch the African Healing Dance DVD that she created and performs in, see her website www.wyomadance.com.
Percussionist Lisa Newell has been immersed in Roots music of West Africa for over 15 years, having traveled to the region 5 times to study and perform with master drummers and dancers. Having just returned from another trip to Senegal, Lisa is full of vibrancy and passion more than ever. She has played for hundreds of African dance classes over the years; and she is the director, founder, and primary teacher of the Jaama Rek Drum School in Brattleboro where she teaches weekly classes for all levels in djembe and doun doun. Lisa performs all over New England with the all-female, folkloric drum, dance, and vocal ensemble Gaia Roots and a new project locally with ShaktiPops, a Kirtin ensemble. In addition to being a drummer, Lisa maintains a private practice, in Brattleboro, as a body/mind and trauma-resolution therapist for the past 15 years.
Before Jamemurrell Stanley was able to walk or talk, he sang the rhythms that he heard while at drum and dance class with his mother. By age 14 he
traveled to Senegal, West Africa to expand his knowledge of African culture and music. He studied with Senegalese master drummer Ibraham Camara, the former drummer for the National Ballet of Senegal. He also studied under Jah Amen And Leon Mobley, students of Nigerian master drummer Babatunde Olatunji. Jamemurrell attended Boston Arts Academy where he transformed himself into a total percussionist. In 2010 Jamemurrell released his debut album, "Sketches Of Africa". Following in the steps of his mentor Babatunde Olatunji, who played for many years with Santana and other popular artists of the day, Jamemurrell has succeeded in bringing African drumming into contemporary mainstream music. He has performed and
recorded with many major artists in all genres and has toured in Europe, the Caribbean and all over the United States.
For more information see www.africandancevt.com, African Dance Vermont on Facebook, or call 802-380-5152.
Special guest teacher Kissima Diabate will teach drum and dance workshops on January 4th, 2014.
Sunday January 5th is the snow date.
Drum class 12:30 - 2:00 $12-15
Dance class 2:00 - 4:00 $15-20
All levels welcome
Kissima Diabate was exposed to the djembe from birth. He was born in Dakar, Senegal, into a well-known griot family, who originally migrated from Mali. He grew up following his singing mother and father, while accompanying the great master drummers. At an early age while enrolled in school, Kissima played in different ensembles. During this time, he was also a member of the “Ballet Deco Afrique”. At the age of 12, he started his professional career as a djembe soloist in the famous “Ballet d’Afrique Noir”. Four years later, Kissima Diabate joined the “Ballet National Du Senegal” as a solo drummer and dancer on an eight-year tour.
Kissima has organized and directed a number of performing groups including “Keur Senegal”, “Nunou Diapo”, “Jam Ak Jam”, and “Groupe Kiss.” Among his many accomplishments, Kissima has produced numerous recordings, including 6 CD’s. His latest “Beug Fallou” was released in March, 2009, in Dakar, Senegal. Kissima plays many different instruments including the djembe, dioun dioun (base drums), sabar, tama (talking drum), seouraba, bougarabou and balafon. Kissima sings, composes, arranges rhythms and also collaborates with other musicians
Kissima is also an accomplished dancer and is able to bring dances worldwide to festivals, workshops and performances that are rarely seen. Many of these dances he learned from his parents as he became absorbed into the life of a griot at the age of two. His graciousness and warmth permeates a dance studio, drum workshop and theaters and is felt by all.
Kissima has upheld the responsibility given to him as birth as a griot. For several decades he has taught many of the well-known djembefolas both in Dakar and abroad, who come from Senegal and now work and perform internationally. He is considered a master teacher and mentor to many Senegalese drummers. Many have felt privileged to be under the tutelage of this master drummer. He is a skilled percussionist who has performed at a multitude of well-known venues. His expertise for teaching djembe and dance classes are renown. His rhythm compositions are complicated and require precision to master.
Kissima performs and teaches throughout Africa, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Italy, Japan, Germany, Spain, Canada and the United States. He is considered one of the top djembefolas worldwide and tours every year. With explosive energy and musical genius, the honorable Kissima (“The Lion of Senegal”) is an incredible source of inspiration wherever he teaches and performs
Special guest teacher Solo Sana will teach on
Wednesday December 11th, 2013 from 7:00 - 8:30 pm
sliding scale from $15-20
All levels welcome
Souleymane Solo Sana is an accomplished traditional dancer from Mali, West Africa. A principal member for one of the premiere companies of Mali, Ballet Du District de Bamako, he has proven himself as a leader among the artists. Solo’s presence at local ceremonies and festivals is in high demand, performing with renown griots and musicians. He has also performed with internationally known artists such as Djeneba Seck and Oumou Sangare. With an extensive knowledge of traditional dances of the Mande culture he is has become a highly sought after instructor for private and group lessons. Solo has taught students from France, Italy, US, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, and other countries of Africa. Most notable he has instructed internationally acclaimed dancers from the United States that include university instructors and Broadway performers. He is currently in the US performing, teaching workshops and leading school residencies for Jeh Kulu Dance in Drum Theater, at the University of Vermont as well as independently. In 2012 he was a featured Artist in Residence at UNC-Greensboro creating original choreography for Robin Gee’s Sugarfoote Productions. Recently he has participated in a cultural exchange in Liberia working with local artists who are reviving their music and dance scene after more than a decade of struggle due to a 13 year civil war. He is looking forward to making his choreographic premiere in New York City in the Spring of 2014.
Sunday January 5th is the snow date.
Drum class 12:30 - 2:00 $12-15
Dance class 2:00 - 4:00 $15-20
All levels welcome
Kissima Diabate was exposed to the djembe from birth. He was born in Dakar, Senegal, into a well-known griot family, who originally migrated from Mali. He grew up following his singing mother and father, while accompanying the great master drummers. At an early age while enrolled in school, Kissima played in different ensembles. During this time, he was also a member of the “Ballet Deco Afrique”. At the age of 12, he started his professional career as a djembe soloist in the famous “Ballet d’Afrique Noir”. Four years later, Kissima Diabate joined the “Ballet National Du Senegal” as a solo drummer and dancer on an eight-year tour.
Kissima has organized and directed a number of performing groups including “Keur Senegal”, “Nunou Diapo”, “Jam Ak Jam”, and “Groupe Kiss.” Among his many accomplishments, Kissima has produced numerous recordings, including 6 CD’s. His latest “Beug Fallou” was released in March, 2009, in Dakar, Senegal. Kissima plays many different instruments including the djembe, dioun dioun (base drums), sabar, tama (talking drum), seouraba, bougarabou and balafon. Kissima sings, composes, arranges rhythms and also collaborates with other musicians
Kissima is also an accomplished dancer and is able to bring dances worldwide to festivals, workshops and performances that are rarely seen. Many of these dances he learned from his parents as he became absorbed into the life of a griot at the age of two. His graciousness and warmth permeates a dance studio, drum workshop and theaters and is felt by all.
Kissima has upheld the responsibility given to him as birth as a griot. For several decades he has taught many of the well-known djembefolas both in Dakar and abroad, who come from Senegal and now work and perform internationally. He is considered a master teacher and mentor to many Senegalese drummers. Many have felt privileged to be under the tutelage of this master drummer. He is a skilled percussionist who has performed at a multitude of well-known venues. His expertise for teaching djembe and dance classes are renown. His rhythm compositions are complicated and require precision to master.
Kissima performs and teaches throughout Africa, Switzerland, Belgium, France, Italy, Japan, Germany, Spain, Canada and the United States. He is considered one of the top djembefolas worldwide and tours every year. With explosive energy and musical genius, the honorable Kissima (“The Lion of Senegal”) is an incredible source of inspiration wherever he teaches and performs
Special guest teacher Solo Sana will teach on
Wednesday December 11th, 2013 from 7:00 - 8:30 pm
sliding scale from $15-20
All levels welcome
Souleymane Solo Sana is an accomplished traditional dancer from Mali, West Africa. A principal member for one of the premiere companies of Mali, Ballet Du District de Bamako, he has proven himself as a leader among the artists. Solo’s presence at local ceremonies and festivals is in high demand, performing with renown griots and musicians. He has also performed with internationally known artists such as Djeneba Seck and Oumou Sangare. With an extensive knowledge of traditional dances of the Mande culture he is has become a highly sought after instructor for private and group lessons. Solo has taught students from France, Italy, US, Japan, Germany, Switzerland, Morocco, and other countries of Africa. Most notable he has instructed internationally acclaimed dancers from the United States that include university instructors and Broadway performers. He is currently in the US performing, teaching workshops and leading school residencies for Jeh Kulu Dance in Drum Theater, at the University of Vermont as well as independently. In 2012 he was a featured Artist in Residence at UNC-Greensboro creating original choreography for Robin Gee’s Sugarfoote Productions. Recently he has participated in a cultural exchange in Liberia working with local artists who are reviving their music and dance scene after more than a decade of struggle due to a 13 year civil war. He is looking forward to making his choreographic premiere in New York City in the Spring of 2014.
Special guest teacher Youssouf Koumbassa will teach on Wednesday October 30th, 2013 from 7:00 - 8:30 pm
sliding scale from $15-20
All levels welcome
Born in Conakry, Guinea, Youssouf is perhaps the world's most sought-after teacher of Guinea-style African dance. He was a principle dancer with Ballet Djoliba, one of Guinea's most important national dance companies, for 13 years, training and touring extensively throughout the world. With his prodigious skill and thrilling talent, as well as the precious pedagogy and choreography of his teachers before him, Youssouf relocated to the United States to share his passion and his legacy with dancers and audiences everywhere.
For the past 25 years, Youssouf has taught countless devoted students around the world the beauty and energy of Guinea dance. He teaches at conferences and workshops all over the world, from Mexico to Amsterdam, California to Japan, yet maintains his position at the center of his African dance community in New York City.
In 2011, Youssouf co-founded the Nimba Center for Arts & Sustainable Energy, a cross-cultural partnership of dancers, renewable energy experts, and educators working together to improve everyday living conditions in Guinea through performing arts and sustainable energy solutions. Youssouf returns to Guinea every year to lead a month-long immersion workshop for international students in drum and dance.
See http://youssoufkoumbassa.weebly.com for more info. about Youssouf
sliding scale from $15-20
All levels welcome
Born in Conakry, Guinea, Youssouf is perhaps the world's most sought-after teacher of Guinea-style African dance. He was a principle dancer with Ballet Djoliba, one of Guinea's most important national dance companies, for 13 years, training and touring extensively throughout the world. With his prodigious skill and thrilling talent, as well as the precious pedagogy and choreography of his teachers before him, Youssouf relocated to the United States to share his passion and his legacy with dancers and audiences everywhere.
For the past 25 years, Youssouf has taught countless devoted students around the world the beauty and energy of Guinea dance. He teaches at conferences and workshops all over the world, from Mexico to Amsterdam, California to Japan, yet maintains his position at the center of his African dance community in New York City.
In 2011, Youssouf co-founded the Nimba Center for Arts & Sustainable Energy, a cross-cultural partnership of dancers, renewable energy experts, and educators working together to improve everyday living conditions in Guinea through performing arts and sustainable energy solutions. Youssouf returns to Guinea every year to lead a month-long immersion workshop for international students in drum and dance.
See http://youssoufkoumbassa.weebly.com for more info. about Youssouf
Past Special Workshops...
Special Workshop with Abdoulaye Sylla
Wednesday, April 11th 2012
7-9pm
Sliding scale $15-$20. Student rate $12
Abdoulaye began dancing professionally at an early age in Conakry, where he danced competitively with several dance troupes and developed a reputation for having a dynamic style. In the 1980s, he became a dancer and Director of Technique for the folkloric dance troupe Les Merveilles. In 1989, he became a principal dancer for the internationally renowned dance troupe Les Ballets Africains and toured widely in Africa, Europe, and the United States. After moving to the United States in 1994, Abdoulaye held numerous artistic residencies and taught master classes throughout the U.S. and abroad. In Hartford, Connecticut, Abdoulaye was a longstanding faculty member in the Theater and Dance Department at Trinity College and a master teacher for the Artist Collective. He also created FOTOBA, a traditional dance troupe, which performed and held workshops in the U.S. Throughout his tenure in Connecticut, he taught community classes where he always brought a warm and generous spirit to his teaching and could always be counted on to provide moral support to fellow artists. Currently, Abdoulaye lives in Seattle Washington where he continues to teach and perform with local musicians.
