We had the good fortune of connecting with Dee Desnoyers and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dee, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
My West African drumming classes benefit the community by providing a place of belonging and connection. They offer a way for people to come together and share the joy of making music as a group, regardless of background or experience. The tradition in which I have learned this music is founded on values such as inclusivity and respect. As Mamady Keita, a master drummer from Northeast Guinea, said, “The djembe does not see color, race, or gender; what the djembe sees is our hearts.” Drumming together allows people to de-stress, feel seen, experience joy, and build confidence while connecting to something larger than themselves and to each other.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am not only a West African drumming instructor but also a licensed mental health professional. This allows me to create drumming spaces that are emotionally safe and supportive, making my classes both deeply restorative and energizing. I continue to learn from master drummers and remain rooted in the traditional lineage of this music, with Tam Tam Mandingue as one of my key connections. I teach with cultural context, emphasizing the values of respect, inclusivity, and community that are central to West African drumming traditions. I have a rare ability to break down complex rhythms in a way that makes them accessible to complete beginners while still engaging more advanced students. My teaching style helps people learn quickly, build confidence, and experience the joy of making music together in a welcoming environment while having fun.

Throughout my career, I have worked with youth in a variety of settings—as a school counselor, therapist, program director for an after-school music program, and most recently as a pit drummer for Be More Chill, performed through Places Everyone! and Fort Collins Children’s Theatre+ (FCCT+). Bringing together my passion for music and working with youth has been incredibly rewarding.

Additionally, in my role as Lead Facilitator with Sewa Beats, an organizational development and training company that uses music as a metaphor for professional success, I am able to combine my enthusiasm for bringing people together with using music as a bridge to foster connection and help others find deeper meaning.

Above all, I believe drumming is a powerful way to bring people together and foster a sense of belonging. Whether someone is looking to reduce stress, build confidence, or connect with others through music, I love helping each person discover what drumming can offer them.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m new to Colorado myself, so I’m still exploring and discovering my favorite spots. One place I’ve already fallen in love with is the NoCo Cat Cafe—I really value the work they do and enjoy spending time with the cats, so it’s definitely at the top of my list. Also, Arte’s pizza is consistently delicious. I’m excited to keep expanding my list of go-to places!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to Bill Scheidt, the Tam Tam Mandingue Winston-Salem School Director. From Bill, I learned how to practice, how to teach, and how to stay engaged in my own process and struggles while learning this music and sharing it with others. This foundation has allowed my drumming and teaching to come from a place of integrity and continues to inspire me to keep growing and developing.

Website: https://www.drum-club.com

Instagram: deedesnoyersdrums

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deedesnoyers/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084782349854

Other: https://sewabeatsusa.com/our-team/

Image Credits
Ann Packwood
Mike Ensley
Dean Hesse
Phil Coventry

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