Celebrate 30 years of Vado Diomande’s incredible journey in the United States by immersing yourself in the powerful rhythms of West African drumming. In this Dance for Joy workshop series, Vado, a lifelong drummer, drum-maker, and repairer, will guide you through the vibrant musical traditions of West Africa, where the drum is the heartbeat of the culture. You’ll master the djembe, doundoun, songbas, and kenkenes, learning how to create dynamic rhythms that signal dancers to shift their movements in harmony with the music. As you progress, you’ll take on more complex patterns and syncopated beats, all while being part of a diverse community of drummers at various skill levels. This 10-week, donation-based class is more than just learning to drum—it's about connecting with a rich cultural legacy and celebrating the powerful role of rhythm in bringing people together.

Learn more about Vado Diomande