What we do: “Mady Keita's African Drumming Academy" student ensemble showcases the roots of African Drumming with some authentic and catchy Mande (West African) rhythms. The ensemble is led by Mady Keita from Mali and Abli Laryea from Ghana, performing on lead djembe and vocals.

Mady Keita is a highly respected Master Drummer and began his drumming tutelage at the age of 14 under the guidance of the legendary Mouriba Keita in Mali's capital, Bamako. Because of his rare and authentic approach to the drum, Mady is well known as a Roots Djembe Traditionalist and is sought out by students from around the world as a keeper of tradition.

Abli Laryea is a Master Drummer and multi-instrumentalist from Nungua/Accra, Ghana, specialising in djembe with a long-held interest in traditional drumming and music. With 20 years experience, Abli is an active and well-known musician, teacher and performer and a much-loved member of the "Super Mande Percussion" ensemble here in Australia.

Mady has been running his African Drumming Academy as well as performing with "Super Mande Percussion" throughout Melbourne and beyond since 2005. As well as teaching and performing, Mady also runs the “Super Mande Percussion” shop in Bayswater, where he has a drum-making and repair workshop and many beautiful hand-crafted instruments on display."

What we sell: African Drumming Academy - cultural experiences

Type of Organisation: Music, multicultural events and programs