Mohamed's West African Drum and Dance performances leave an audience happy, uplifted, and inspired! Dramatic and unforgettable, they bring energy and excitement to any event! A standard performance consists of traditional Guinean costumes, a variety of West African instruments, and West African dance and/or acrobatics.
Mohamed has performed in venues ranging from elegant concert halls, to middle school assemblies, to outdoor art festivals. Woven into each performance, Mohamed's unique perspective and Susu culture allow him to connect with an audience in refreshing ways. With 30 years of professional experience, Mohamed is masterful at relating to audiences young and old!
For each performance, Mohamed books an ensemble of talented musicians to accompany him. The price of a performance depends on the number of musicians and dancers requested.
Please do not hesitate to contact Mohamed with any questions! He is happy to customize a performance to fit the unique requirements of your event...
Under the direction of world-class Djembefola Mohamed Diaby, Atebayilla is a West African drumming and dance ensemble based in Rochester, New York, dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich rhythms, dances, and cultural traditions of Guinea, West Africa.
The name of the group is Atebayilla, a Diakhanké word meaning “This is my destiny.” It reflects Mohamed’s deep connection to his heritage and his personal responsibility to preserve and share these traditions with audiences around the world.
Born and raised in Guinea, Mohamed began playing djembe at the age of seven under the guidance of his elder brother, Moustapha Diaby, a member of Guinea’s National Ballet. His dedication and talent led him to perform as a lead drummer with various ensembles across West Africa and eventually train with the legendary Kemoko Sano, artistic director of Les Ballets Africains. Mohamed later became lead drummer with Sano’s company, Les Merveilles de Guinée, before bringing his artistry to the United States in 1995.
Today, through Atebayilla. Mohamed continues to teach, perform, and share the rich spirit of Guinean culture through schools, festivals, community events, concerts, and cultural celebrations. Rooted in Guinea’s traditions, Atebayilla. brings the powerful rhythms of the djembe and the energy of dance to occasions that celebrate life. from naming ceremonies and weddings to births, harvests, and community gatherings. Every performance is an opportunity to experience, honor, and celebrate the living traditions of Guinea.
Atebayilla Dance Company
