photos by David Smith

Ali Thomas is an experienced and gifted teacher, performer and group leader.  Her charismatic style and ability to connect with students of all ages, cultures and experience levels make her a popular and sought-after instructor.  

 Ali has primarily studied under Mamady Keita and had the unique opportunity of living with him and his family in San Diego, CA, for three years. During this time, she gained deep insight into the nuances of West African culture, as well as specialized djembe building techniques.

She has studied and performed internationally with Mamady, including an historic journey to his home village of Balandugu, Guinea. To purchase the DVD documentary of this adventure please click here! (We are sad to say this video is no longer in print)

Other teachers she has taken workshops or on-going classes from include:

·        Famoudou Konate      http://www.famoudoukonate.com/

·      Mabiba Baegne    

http://www.lokole.org/Home.html

·      Lamine “Dibo” Camara      http://www.forefote.com/aboutus.php



 Ali  has a remarkable ability

to “translate” complex drumming patterns into an understandable language for her students. She guides students to understanding with her dynamic style and vast array of teaching tools she has acquired from her 18 years of teaching experience.  Ali is as comfortable working with large groups of children in school settings as she is teaching level-specific workshops for adults, regular weekly classes, and one-on-one lessons.

Ali retained an active status as a Certified Teacher for Tam Tam Mandingue International, from January 2008 to September 2014.
TTMI Certified Teachers/Diploma holders/School Directors have all traveled to Africa as part of their studies, and demonstrated extensive knowledge of traditional rhythms with a one-on-one test with Grand-Master Mamady Keita, as well as the cultural and historical significance related to the rhythms. TTMI is a school of West African drumming founded by legendary djembe master Mamady Keita.

The school is dedicated to preserving and transmitting Mandingue musical tradition.

Ali was Assistant Director for Tam Tam Mandingue, San Diego branch, between 2005 and 2011, which was also the international head quarters at the time.