ABOUT M’Bemba Bangoura
SESSION TITLE: Sounds and Technique of the Djembe in Guinea, West Africa
M’Bemba Bangoura has traveled the world as a performer and teacher of the Djembe drum, for which he is revered for his high level of mastery. As a native of Guinea, West Africa, M’Bemba began playing the djembe at the young age of seven. By the age of twenty-one, he was an acclaimed drummer and was invited to play for Ballet Djoliba, the national company of Guinea. Since moving to the US in 1992, M’Bemba has been an integral part of the entire drum and dance scene nationwide. He has taught hundreds of students, many of whom are now teachers themselves. In addition, he has personally created choreography and developed repertoire for dozens of dance companies worldwide.
Working throughout the United States, South America, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, his style is infectious. He has recorded 4 solo albums and an educational project called Wamato: Everybody Look! M’bemba has been a guest artist on dozens of other recording projects, videos, and films.
Mr. Bangoura is the artistic director of Wula Drum and continues to create repertoire for the group, teaching and performing worldwide. Dedicated to teaching drumming, dancing, and his culture, M’Bemba is one of the world’s most prominent ambassadors for Guinean drum and dance at this time. He is a true master drummer.
