WEST AFRICAN DANCE
WEST AFRICAN
DANCE
MANIMOU CAMARA
Explore the vibrant traditions of West Africa in this weekly African dance class centered on the music, movement, and cultural heritage of Guinea. Led by master artist Manimou Camara, each class begins with an energizing warm-up designed to build stamina, coordination, and a strong sense of rhythm.
​
In the second half of class, students dive into authentic, culturally rooted dances from Guinea. With a professional background that includes performing with renowned companies Ballet Saamato and Merveille d’Afrique, Manimou brings deep expertise to his teaching. Beginning his career as a drummer and rising to the level of master drummer, he offers a unique perspective which helps dancers understand the powerful relationship between live drumming and movement.
​​
Explore the vibrant traditions of West Africa in this weekly African dance class centered on the music, movement, and cultural heritage of Guinea.
Manimou Camara is a master drummer, performer, and educator from Guinea, West Africa. His lifelong passion for music began in childhood, inspired by his mother’s traditional songs from the forest region. He began formal djembe training at age 12 under Sekou Deco Sylla and quickly rose through the ranks, continuing his studies with renowned artists including Karamoko Daman. He also performed with leading groups such as Ballet Saamato and Merveille de Guinée.
​
A highly accomplished musician, Manimou has performed and taught internationally, recorded with master artists, and earned top honors at Guinea’s prestigious National Festival of Percussion and Dance. His unique teaching style blends traditional West African methods with insights from his formal education, helping students deeply understand the connection between rhythm, culture, and movement.
MANIMOU CAMARA
WEST AFRICAN DANCE
