Why take Djembe Lessons with Dee?
Why study with Dee?
Studying with Dee offers more than learning rhythm—it’s an opportunity to grow through music in a supportive and inspiring community. As a mid-career psychotherapist as well as an experienced West African drumming instructor, Dee brings a unique depth to the learning environment. Her work as a therapist deeply informs the way she teaches: with attunement, patience, and a strong commitment to creating an environment where each participant feels seen, encouraged, and able to take creative risks.
Dee honors the rich traditions of West African djembe and dunun music while fostering an atmosphere where confidence, connection, and personal expression can flourish. Whether you are a complete beginner or a more experienced drummer, she meets each student where they are and helps them develop both musical skill and a stronger sense of presence within the ensemble. To learn more about Dee's approach to drumming instruction, read this interview with Shoutout Colorado.
What are Dee's credentials?
Dee Desnoyers began her journey in West African drumming in 2006 and has since participated in multiple performing groups. She has learned from a variety of esteemed teachers including Tom Harris, Chuck Cogliandro, Aly Camara, and Bolokada Conde. Currently, Dee is a proud member of the non-profit performance group, Fort Collins African Drum and Dance Collective in Fort Collins, CO, and serves as a Lead Facilitator with Sewa Beats. After participating in an intensive study tour in Guinea with Grandmaster Bolokada Conde, Dee deepened her understanding of the music, dance, and cultural traditions that shape her work . She is committed to sharing the cultural significance and beauty of this tradition with care, respect, and integrity.
Dee is a graduate of the Tam Tam Mandingue Djembe Academy's Drumming Instructors Program in Winston Salem, directed by Bill Scheidt, and is certified as a Beginner Djembe Instructor. Additionally, she holds a certification as a Therapeutic Drumming Instructor through Youth Villages Inner Harbour. Throughout her career, she has facilitated numerous drumming programs in schools and organizations across the Atlanta area.
Dee is currently an Apprentice with Tam Tam Mandingue International, an organization founded by the late Grand Master Mamady Keita, dedicated to preserving the music, tradition, and culture of the Mandingue. Now residing in Northern Colorado, Dee is available to teach drumming classes for schools, organizations, and community groups, and offer experiential team building and leadership development in Loveland, Fort Collins and the surrounding areas!