Workshops :: Private classes :: Performance :: Drum maintenance
Workshops
Workshops
Iya is available for full day workshops to teach traditional Malinké rhythms. Workshops cover Djembé, Dununbah, Sangban and Kenkenni parts in equal measure to give students the opportunity to develop a thorough understanding of the whole rhythm. Workshops can be delivered in your venue of choice and at festivals.
Contact us with details of your requirements and for a quote.
“A very encouraging and enabling teacher, creating a lovely warm atmosphere with the group. I look forward to more.”
"Zikoma kwm biri (Chechewe) - fantastic - learnt so much"
"Amazing! Took us to levels that really flew!!!"
School workshops
Iya is available for school drumming workshops, which also include information on the wider cultural aspects of Malinké life in Guinea. The workshops provide a first-hand insight into the fascinating culture of Malinké people and give students a rare opportunity to ask questions and learn about a much under-publicised country and one of it's many tribes.
Contact us with details of your requirements and for a quote.
Monthly classes
Iya is guest teacher at Knock on Wood in Leeds on 3rd or 4th Tuesday night of each month. Classes are intermediate/advanced level and cover Djembé, Dununbah, Sangban and Kenkenni parts for Malinké rhythms. Contact us or Knock on Wood for further details.
"Great encouraging atmosphere - taking the time with everyone - great feeling to play tightly with so many - merci!"
You can book Iya Sako to visit your established group as a guest teacher. This can be on a regular, or a one-off basis. contact us
Weekly classes
If you are a drumming student interested in starting a weekly class in the North West, please contact us with your details (current level of drumming, where based and evenings available)
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Private Classes
Iya can be booked for one-to-one private tuition, or closed small group sessions to teach djembé solo technique and phrases, and improve understanding of rhythm composition.
Performance groups and individual students benefit massively from one-to-one tuition as it is taylored to individual needs. Unlike in a large group setting, students can freely ask questions and repeat phrases as many times as necessary without the consideration of disruption to other students. Progress through regular one-to-one sessions is usually rapid, simply because Iya will work with you to formulate a learning plan unique to your needs.
" Can't thank you enough for my private lesson. I learned more with Iya in those 2 hours than in any other lesson or workshop before!"
experienced djembé teacher
Contact us for hourly rates and to book private classes.
Performances
Iya has performed with a number of talented African artists since arriving in the UK in 2007, at events such as Drum Camp, WOMAD, Mela, Tribe of Doris, and Rhythm and Grooves Festival. Iya performed with his teacher and much respected elder Famoudou Konaté at African Drum Village in Scotland 2007.
Iya has performed recently at several events with Manchester based group Tanante Events have included "One Tree Many Roots" at The Contact Theatre, Manchester and several guest appearances at the Saki Bar in Manchester as part of the monthly "Drum Music" night.
Iya and Tanante first met in Manchester shortly after Iya arrived in the UK. In true African style, Tanante invited Iya to perform with them. This led to their subsequent friendship, mutual respect of each others musical talent, and shared passion for West African rhythms.Tanante began official training with Iya in April 2009.
Together Iya Sako and Tanante give a truly amazing live performance, full of positive energy which is guaranteed to get everyone up on their feet dancing.
Iya Sako and Tanante can be booked for a variety of events. Please contact us to discuss your requirements for your event and to make bookings.
Drum Maintenance
If you need Djembé, Dundunbah, Sangbang, Kenkene or Tama (talking drum) repairs, please contact Iya. He carries out professional standard re-skinning and re-tuning work based on many years of experience. contact Iya
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