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I've been studying the rhythms of west africa for nearly a dozen years now. My first teacher was Matthew Marsolek. I learned a great deal from Matthew, not only about technique and specific rhythms, but about rhythm itself. This is where my rhythm addiction originally started and it was fueled by Matthew and the other Drum Brothers who all taught me a lot. Once I was into it I started traveling far and wide for new workshops (Spokane, Seattle, Portland) and also attending classes by every african teacher who came through town (Abdoul Doumbia, Dibo Camara, Fode Bangoura, to name a few). In the past several years I have had the good fortune to learn some djembe and dounoun from two of the all time great Grand Masters, Famoudou Konate, and Mamady Keita. 

Through these sources I have learned a great number of traditional rhythms, from easy to advanced. I enjoy passing the rhythms, the traditions, and the joy of the djembe on to others. I've taught small classes, done demonstrations in schools, and led team building workshops. From beginners to advanced players, there's no end to the enjoyment you can get from drumming. I'm now available to teach private lessons for individuals and small groups. The content can be tailored to each person's interests. 

Over the years I have gone from informal, unpaid performances to fully staged music with professional groups. I have performed with various groups including local dance and drum group LEDA and the Drum Brothers, as well as with visiting performers such as Fore Fote and Sekou Soumah. I have played dance classes for Djibi Camara, Mbiba Baegne, Fode Bangoura, and others. I currently play tenor drum with Missoula's own Celtic Dragon Pipe Band.

For private lessons for individuals or a small group, contact me at 880-3283 or dmr@bresnan.net

Dave Robertson