At Super Mande Percussion, we’ve seen the power of rhythm firsthand. It can lift a mood, calm the nervous system, and help people feel more connected — not just to others, but to themselves.
Our West African drumming therapy sessions offer a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds and abilities. Led by master drummer and cultural ambassador Mady Keita, they are shaped by West Africa's rich traditions and designed to support emotional, physical, and social well-being.
If you’re part of an NDIS plan, working with a school group, or looking for a meaningful program for your community, we cater to your music therapy needs, providing a chance to connect, express, and heal through rhythm.
Why choose African drumming for therapy?
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Real culture. Real connection. Real results.
West African drumming isn’t just about music. It’s a way of expressing emotion, creating connection, and sharing energy – a form of healing that’s been part of life in West African communities for generations.
Here in Melbourne, we’ve watched it bring people out of their shells, ease anxiety, and turn uncertainty into joy.
Here’s how it can help:
✔️ Regulates stress and supports a sense of calm
✔️ Boosts confidence and a feeling of self-worth
✔️ Encourages non-verbal connection and group engagement
✔️ Strengthens coordination, focus, and motor skills
✔️ Creates joy, movement, and shared experience
✔️ Connects people with authentic West African culture straight from the source
We’ve had moments where a participant who hadn’t smiled in ages left the session singing and energised – just from picking up a drum and joining in.
Are you curious about what this could look like for your group?
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Who is African Drumming Therapy for?
Inclusive. Empowering. Accessible to all.
Our African drumming and music therapy sessions are for anyone – from individuals to entire communities.
There’s no need for musical experience. Just come with an open heart and willingness to join in.
We work with:
- NDIS participants
- Mental health support programs
- Disability support services
- Aged care groups
- School well-being programs
- Community centres and cultural organisations
- Rehabilitation and recovery programs
If someone in your life could benefit from connection, confidence or a little boost of energy, this might be just what they need.
Flexible delivery for individuals, groups & educators
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No two people or communities are the same. That’s why our sessions are designed with flexibility and care.
Our drumming and music therapy services for private clients are tailored to each client's unique needs and abilities. We also offer optional consultations, overview documents, and written assessments to support long-term programs - ideal for NDIS plans and therapy coordination.
Beyond individual sessions, we also run group-based West African drumming therapy and teacher training for special development and education professionals.
Whether you’re a carer, teacher or therapist, we’re here to help you bring rhythm into your work.
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What to expect in an African drumming & music therapy session
Every beat brings us closer.
Each session is shaped around your individual or group’s energy, ability and goals. Whether it’s one-on-one or in a group setting, the focus is always on creating a relaxed, safe and comfortable space.
Super Mande Percussion therapy sessions can be customised to include West African drumming, singing, dance, body percussion, and traditional West African instruments.
A typical session may include:
🖤 Grounding exercises using rhythm and movement
🖤 Simple call-and-response drumming
🖤 Rhythm games that spark joy and engagement
🖤 Cultural storytelling from Mady’s Malian heritage
🖤 Group discussion and mindful listening
🖤 Space for reflection and connection
We’ve watched groups that barely spoke to one another leave sessions happy, smiling and more connected than ever before.
Our approach to African drumming therapy
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At the heart of every Super Mande Percussion session is Mady Keita, a master drummer, teacher, craftsman and cultural ambassador from Mali, West Africa. Mady brings not just skill but soul. His sessions are warm, empowering and deeply rooted in his lifelong connection to rhythm as a force for healing.
His approach is grounded in:
- Respect for culture and community
- Creating safe, inclusive spaces
- Meeting people where they’re at
- Uplifting spirits through joy and connection
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“Super Mande Percussion are outstanding! Great musicians, inclusive and supportive with the group. Highly recommended”.
Want to keep exploring? Here’s where rhythm can take you next.
Take the next step in your rhythm journey.
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African drumming classes
Join a classLearn authentic African rhythms in our vibrant Melbourne studio.
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Shop African drums & instruments
Visit the shopBrowse our online store for handcrafted African drums made by Mady.
Plan your African drumming therapy session
Whether you’re organising a one-off session or an ongoing program, we’d love to hear from you. All sessions are tailored to your unique needs and can be held at your venue or in our Melbourne studio. Are you ready to experience the power of African drumming therapy?
