Kazi has been teaching and performing for over 40 years.
Come learn from this beloved veteran of African drumming.
Workshops and classes led by Kazi are not only educational, but also promote cultural awareness and a sense of community. Participants are introduced to an impressive array of African drums, cowbells and other percussion instruments. They receive instruction in proper techniques for striking the instruments, as well as the historical and cultural importance of the drum. Kazi's humorous and fun-loving nature puts even the most introverted student at ease and facilitates the learning of both traditional African rhythms and original rhythms expressly created by Kazi.
“My role as an artist within the community, my role as a djembe player, is to bring people together — to inspire, bring a little happiness, some joy, and a lot of love.”
Please bring a drum if you have one! Workshop fee: $10. All ages welcome.
Kazi’s Philosophy
Djembe means unity. The djembe drum unites drummer and drum, drum and dance, individual and community, one and oneness. As a creative artist, I am grateful for my gift. I am inspired by the richness it brings me, and I want to “give” this love to others.
My goal in making art is to inspire others, not necessarily to play the drum (although I am as pleased as punch when this occurs), but to realize their passion. I believe this realization spawns a natural inclination to share, and when we share, we come together. We unify.
My role as an artist within the community, my role as a djembe player, is to bring people together — to inspire, bring a little happiness, some joy, a lot of love, and...
About Kazi Oliver
As a young child, Kazi Oliver tapped out rhythms on many a household item, including tables, counters, even a sister or two. When his mother discovered that a local after school program offered African drumming, Kazi was promptly directed to attend. Since these early beginnings , he has truly become the drummers' version of the Pied Piper, engaging children and adults in experiencing the energy and excitement derived from African drumming. Workshops and classes led by Kazi are not only educational, but also promote cultural awareness and a sense of community. Participants are introduced to an impressive array of African drums, cowbells and other percussion instruments. They receive instruction in proper techniques for striking the instruments, as well as the historical and cultural importance of the drum. Kazi's humorous and fun-loving nature puts even the most introverted student at ease and facilitates the learning of both traditional African rhythms and original rhythms expressly created by the instructor.
Kazi has been teaching for 45 years and performing for over 40 years. Professionally, Kazi has performed in many places. Some of his most notable appearances have been at the famed jazz venue, the Village Vanguard at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and on ABC-TV's "The View." Yet Kazi enjoys just as much, his appearances at community festivals, schools and events that bring together multi-generational and multicultural audiences to experience and enjoy the awesome power of the African drum.