West African Percussion

Drissa Kone teaches traditional rhythms adjusted to the level of the workshop participants and is known for creating a relaxed and joyful musical atmosphere within a very short time. He diligently and generously passes on his broad knowlegde and repertory and teaches fundamental percussion techniques and background of the taught rhythms. The interrelation of basic rhythm, solo phrases and bass lines will be introduced which offers an insight to the wonderful rhythmic Maninka culture. Drissa’s soft and melodic style is evidence of using the Djembe as a melodic instrument. In this workshop we will not only be frumming but we will learn a lot about the music and musical structures.



Drissa Kone
Drissa Kone is one of the most respected and acknowledged Djembe player of today, in his home country Mali and abroad. He started to play percussion very early in his home village Kuruba. At the age of 13 he went to Bamako, where he studied with legendary percussionist Yamadou Dumbia. In the 1980ies he toured with many Dance Companies through Mali. 1991 he came to Europe and played for many years for the Group Sanza.
Other engagements took him to Germany, Spain, France and Switzerland. In 2006 he lead a two week workshop for professional musicians at the Codarts University of Professional Arts Education / Rotterdam. He is a regular teacher at the beatfactory in Vienna.
In Drissa’s hands the Djembe becomes a melodic instrument, which is well appreciated by dancers. He is spreading a crackling intensity over the dance space as soon as he takes over the solo parts at a celebration.