You’re bound to bump into one of us sooner or later – literally if you’re a local, or figuratively if you call or email.
Shout out to the Australia wide community and our satellite teams across Australia and internationally.
Owner / CEO
What year did you start African Drumming? 1997
Career overview: I have been drumming all my life ..starting on pots and pans aged 2. Now it’s about finding the next big rhythmic application and uniting cultures through music
What is your favourite song to drum to? Fume Fume – a Voodoo purification rhythm from Ghana. It’s a fast 12/8 groove with awesome solo phrases and an amazing dance choreography
When I’m not working at African drumming, I’m loving time with Family in nature, keeping fit and staying in the groove!
What year did you start at African Drumming? 2014
Career overview: I moved to Melbourne from Tel Aviv in 2010. I love how dynamic working at African Drumming is: Never a dull moment, there’s always a new direction to explore.
What is your favourite song to dance to? Berry Sakharof – Kacka Ze
When I’m not working at African drumming, I’m travelling the globe while working remotely, trying new foods, and looking for the best cup of chai.
What year did you start at African Drumming? 2022
Career Overview: I’ve been a professional drummer since I was 17 and I have loved every minute of it. Along the way I’ve picked up a passion for all things media!
What is your favourite song to drum to? I love drumming along with anything from Burna Boy, Angélique Kidjo and Bob Marley.
When I’m not working at African drumming, I’m playing music and chasing the sun.
What year did you start at African Drumming? 2018
Career overview: I joined African Drumming to be around more opportunities to drum and now I’m up to my neck in it! As well as providing instruments to our customers, I practice, play, perform, teach and organise drumming. I’m grateful to have made a lot of good friends too.
What is your favourite song to dance to? At the moment, Only You by Steve Monite.
When I’m not working at African drumming, I’m balancing relaxation, music, adventure and fun, whilst avoiding all responsibility.
What year did you start at African Drumming? In May 2022
Career overview: I’ve worked in sales and administration for 20 + years and have been coordinating events since 2018, the thing I love most about my role at African Drumming is collaborating with people, being part of the magic that forms special events for others is important to me. My passion is music, I am a songwriter and singer, over 30 years experience, have shared the stage with musicians from all over the world and my fondest memory is performing with Al Green’s band when they toured Australia.
What is your favourite song to sing? That’s a tough one, so many, but my favourite of all time is “Moody’s mood for love”
When I’m not working at African drumming, I’m spending time with loved ones and making memories, travelling and learning as much as I can about myself and others.
What year did you start at African Drumming? 2022
Career overview: I’m a science teacher, and physicist, with professional experience in different contexts, such as schools, academia, and industry. I like andean and afro music. I used to play music in Chile with a lakitas band.
What is your favourite song to listen to? I’m unsure if I have one favorite, but today I’d choose Condorcanqui from Illapu.
When I’m not working at African drumming, I’m visiting beautiful natural places around Melbourne.
Abli Nii Otu Laryea
What year did you start at African Drumming? I’ve been working with the African Drumming team since 2000.
Career Overview: I started drumming in Nungua with some family members when I was 6 years old, before joining a group and practicing 5 days a week. I came to Australia when I was 26 years old and continue to go back and forth between Africa and Australia.
What is your favourite song to drum to? I love the Kpanlogo rhythm from Ghana and also the Bete rhythm from Ivory Coast, which is a fast 12/8 rhythm with cool solos.
When I’m not working at African drumming, I love soccer! So I’ll play with friends or watch it on TV at every opportunity
Bruno De Moura Floriano
What year did you start at African Drumming? 2010
Career Overview: I’ve been a drum maker for 12 years and a professional Capoeira Angola artist since I was 14 years old. I moved to Australia from Brazil in my early thirties.
What is your favourite song to drum to? I love drumming along with traditional Angolan Brazilian fusion. I also enjoy Samba Reggae when I’m chilling and dancing!
When I’m not working at African drumming, I’m practicing my berimbau, walking the beach, and spending time with my daughter.
Odai Nmai
What year did you start at African Drumming? I’ve been working with the African Drumming team since 2000.
Career Overview: I started drumming in a local group back in 1978 after a lot of drumming in my house and disturbing my family playing Milo tins. I played in dozens of groups in Ghana before moving to Australia in 2000
What is your favourite song to drum to? I love the 6/8 Adowa rhythm that the Gaa’s play. It’s played by just one hand drummer who works in time with the dancers.
When I’m not working at African drumming, I love writing and creating new music. From Reggae to Afrobeat and Highlife, I’m always coming up with new songs
”Teamwork is at the heart of African music and the heart of this company.
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