Djembe 360: Whole Rhythm Series

The next session is coming in the Fall of 2025. In Djembe 360 you will learn three rhythms exactly as they were taught by three of the greatest grandmasters of the djembe.

This class was inspired by Clif Koufman’s recent trip to Guinea, West Africa. After years of teaching West African drumming he wanted to do something different by featuring the rhythms of three grandmasters in one class. Djembe 360 will include rhythms taught to him by Mamady Keita, Famoudou Konate and Bolokada Conde.

Each rhythm has its own distinct feel, and in this series, Clif will pass them down just as he learned them—preserving the structure, energy, and intention behind each groove. This isn’t just about djembe—participants will experience the full rhythm system, including three bass drum parts: Dununba (large), Sangban (medium), and Kenkeni (small)—each with bells on top—as well as signals and solo phrasing. The class will move fast and challenge everyone, offering something exciting and fresh.

Upcoming class dates to be announced

What You’ll Learn

Djansa (Mamady Keita)

• 3 Dunun Parts
• 2 Djembe accompaniments
• Solo Original – sequence of phrases

Soko Laban (Bolokada Condé)

• 3 Dunun Parts
• 2 Djembe accompaniments
• Break – traditional phrase
• Solo phrase – unique phrasing for improvisation

Mendiani (Famoudou Konaté)

• 3 Dunun Parts
• 2 Djembe accompaniments
• Dunun variations
• Solo phrase – rhythm-specific phrases

This class is for both beginners and advanced players

• Beginners will get an introduction to three distinct rhythms, their history, and their feel.
• Advanced players will dive deep into variations, solos, and breaks exactly as they were taught by the masters.

Three Rhythms as taught by three Grandmasters

“Clifford has clearly put a lot of thought into how to make zoom learning easy and efficient for his students. Straight from Nashville, the Sound and Rhythm Drumming School rocks!”

~ Jacquee D

“Clifford told me he can teach anyone how to drum and after my first lesson I can see why. He is a very good teacher, calm and patient. Clifford explains everything clearly and he has good knowledge of drums. I’m excited and I’m looking forward to continuing on.”

~ Glen L

“I am deeply grateful to Clifford because I met my husband in his drum class! He even drummed us down the aisle at our wedding. You never know what magic you may discover at Clifford’s classes so don’t hesitate to sign up. You might just fall in love – at least you will with drumming.”

~ Julie R

“At each lesson, Clifford provides clear and concise instructions of what’s needed for me to improve my playing. Clifford continues to challenge me and push me to do more (in a very good way). I look forward to many more years of improvement and exploration of what’s possible on the drum set with Clifford!”

~ Mark S

“I started playing drums in my early 60’s. Clifford was patient and a great instructor. Would highly recommend for all ages. Today I am playing in a band.”

~ Bill W

“Signing up for my first class with you changed my life!! One of the best decisions and leaps of faith I’ve ever made. Enjoy, y’all!”

~ Leslie J