Business Details
22 Years
experience
African Drum & Dance Classes Sacramento
Founded in 2004 by Angela J. James and Olivia Yasmin, our company bridges cultural heritage with community engagement through African and Afro-Caribbean drumming and dance. We specialize in immersive educational programs, certified teaching artist outreach, and performances that celebrate the unifying power of rhythm. Our curriculum, designed for ages 3 to university level, integrates physical movement, storytelling, and mental wellness practices rooted in indigenous traditions. With over two decades of experience, weve cultivated a reputation for fostering creativity, cultural appreciation, and emotional expression through the performing arts.Our team of professional musicians and dancers delivers structured classes, school assemblies, and private events while maintaining a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. By combining technical instruction with therapeutic benefits like stress relief and group cohesion, we empower individuals to connect with their heritage and community. Our Sacramento-based operations have expanded to serve regional festivals, universities, and cultural institutions, ensuring our impact extends beyond the classroom.
Services
Drum Classes
Dance Workshops
School Assemblies
Cultural Performances
Private Instruction
Festival Appearances
Educational Outreach
Lecture Demonstrations
Preschool Programs
University Workshops
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- Certified Teaching Artists with expertise in African diaspora traditions
- Proven therapeutic benefits through drumming circle methodology
- Culturally authentic programming for ages 3 to university level
- Award-winning performance troupe with regional festival presence
- Community-focused approach combining education and emotional wellness
What people say
Energetic instructors
Cultural connection
Therapeutic experience
Family-friendly environment
Authentic performances
Services
Drum Classes
Weekly African drumming lessons focusing on traditional techniques and cultural context. Students learn hand drum patterns from West Africa and the Caribbean while exploring the instrument's therapeutic benefits. Classes accommodate all skill levels with progressive curriculum development.
Dance Workshops
Afro-Caribbean dance instruction combining rhythmic footwork with cultural storytelling. Participants engage in physically expressive routines that build coordination while connecting to diasporic heritage. Sessions include live drum accompaniment for authentic learning experiences.
School Assemblies
Interactive cultural presentations for preschool through university audiences. Featuring live performance, audience participation, and historical context about African diaspora arts. Programs align with arts education standards while promoting cross-cultural understanding through movement and music.
Private Instruction
Tailored drumming and dance tuition for individuals or small groups. Instructors create personalized learning plans focusing on specific goals, whether cultural connection, performance preparation, or therapeutic practice. Flexible scheduling available for special arrangements.
Festival Performances
Professional-grade performances for public festivals and community events. Our troupe showcases traditional and contemporary African diaspora arts through choreographed dance, live drumming, and vocal storytelling. Each presentation educates audiences while creating vibrant communal experiences.
People
Olivia Yasmin
Artistic Director
Third-generation performer continuing family traditions from the Caribbean. Oversees curriculum development and performance programming while teaching advanced drumming techniques. Brings 20+ years of stage experience to leadership role.
Mariam Diakite
Dancer/Singer
Professional performer specializing in West African dance traditions. Certified teaching artist with expertise in cultural storytelling through movement. Regularly appears in both educational programs and public performances.
Maxwell Rea
Drummer/Teacher
Master percussionist with 15 years of instruction experience. Focuses on hand drum techniques and rhythmic theory while mentoring students in therapeutic applications of drumming circles.
Angela J. James
Founder
Visionary co-founder (1955-2023) who established cultural foundation. Performance poet and storyteller who integrated Caribbean oral traditions with African drumming practices to create unique educational methodology.
Boynarr Sow
Drummer/Musician
Specialist in traditional African percussion instruments. Teaches ensemble playing and cultural context while performing in both educational and entertainment settings across Northern California.
Questions
What drum styles do you teach?
We specialize in West African and Afro-Caribbean hand drum techniques, focusing on traditional rhythms and cultural context.
Are classes suitable for beginners?
Yes! Our progressive curriculum accommodates all skill levels from absolute beginners to advanced students.
Do you offer children's programs?
We provide age-appropriate instruction for preschoolers through teens, including school assembly programs.
Can I book a private event?
Yes, our performance troupe is available for festivals, private parties, and corporate events.
What should I wear to class?
Comfortable clothing that allows movement. Drummers should have bare hands for proper technique development.
Are there performance opportunities?
Students participate in seasonal showcases and community events throughout the year.
Reviews (4)
Ayla Dozier
Oct 19, 2021
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I went to a dance class here and loved it, I'll definitely be coming back! I went to the Fridays drumming at 6pm and dancing at 7pm dance class.
L. Martina Fisher
Jul 31, 2019
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Let's Dance, Let's Dance to the drummers beat! The combination of Drum Lessons and Dance Performances are excellent. So much fun on Saturday afternoons. Love it!
Vicki Brown
Jun 28, 2019
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The atmosphere was inviting and the class was very good for all levels. I had a great time and I am pretty sure you will feel the same.
Jason Mellonie Richardson
May 13, 2016
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Amazing class and very professional and courteous company. My group Sacramento Sister Circle LOVED it! We'll be back!
