Group Lessons at Independence Park

Malik Ross started playing West African drums at 4 years of age at The Gloria Jackson School of Dance. Here Malik learned to lead and play the back up for various dance classes. Malik went on to play at various dance schools in the Greater Queens, New York area, including:
• Miss Hill Dance Studio
• GLR School of Dance
• The Dance Hut
• DEVORE School of Dance

Malik trained and studied with purpose in 2002 and again in 2003 in Guinea, West Africa to fine-tune his drumming skills, while immersing himself in the authentic culture of African Dance and Drum heritage. Upon his return to the States, Malik has played at many local New York area Colleges such as Hunter College, NY Univ., York College, and Univ. of Penn.

Malik has traveled the globe playing professionally for such dance troupes as:
• A.A.A.D.S.
• Tri Shades of Gold
• African Dance Troop
• Harambee Dance Group
• Black Expo Dance Company
• LA Rock Bey Dance Company
• KULU Male Dance Company

At the age of 34, Malik continues to teach kids from all over the world how to drum. “It’s a God given gift and I am passing it on.” Malik’s love and passion for drumming are fueled by his desire to bring cultural awareness to communities. Currently residing in the Charlotte area, Malik has wasted no time in establishing himself and continuing to share his gift and passion for the drum with people from all walks of life and ages by:
• Hosting Independent African Drum Workshops and Classes
• Playing with the World Dance Center of Charlotte and assisting with classes
• Performs with a number of dance troupes in the Greater Charlotte Area
• Teaching this rich African culture is a fulfilling and dynamic way to share his passion.

Sharing his passion, knowledge and expertise for the richness of African culture, allows Malik to fulfill his desire to tell the great stories of Africa via the DRUM

“Traditional rhythms are a living art and an integral part of our existence. Whether it is a wedding, a circumcision, or a mask, the rhythms are always there, inseparable from everyday life. Traditional rhythm represents life itself. It expresses what one does, wants to do, or has done. In Africa there are no expressions of joy without rhythm. And we have many opportunities to be joyful in our lives, for instance, when a child is born, at he end of Ramadon, at harvest time, and when fishing, among others.” –Mamady Keita, A Life for the Djembe