Regina Wells
Regina Wells is a full-hearted singer whose voice and presence touches people deeply. She has been singing all of her life, from her youth leading Catholic… Read More »Regina Wells
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Born To Drum 2014 Faculty Bios
Larissa Montfort
Larissa Montfort has been exploring her passion for West African, Congolese, and Afro-Cuban rhythms since 1995 with many teachers, including Mabiba Baegne, Ubaka Hill, Yona Fleming, Malonga Casquelord, Stori Davis, and… Read More »Larissa Montfort
Avotcja
Avotcja (pronounced Avacha) is a card carrying New York born Music fanatic/sound junkie & popular Bay Area Radio DeeJay & member of the award winning… Read More »Avotcja
Amikaeyla Gaston
Amikaeyla is an amazing vocalist and percussionist who comes from the Washington DC area. She has studied, recorded with, and shared the stage with many… Read More »Amikaeyla Gaston
Sue Kaye (Suki)
Sue Kaye (Suki) has been playing conga drums, Ngomas, and other percussion for 35 years. Originally from New York, Suki has studied with many master… Read More »Sue Kaye (Suki)
Debbie Fier
Debbie Fier has over 35 years of experience as a performing vocalist, drummer, pianist, composer, percussionist, and teacher. She has studied numerous drum styles for over… Read More »Debbie Fier
Nydia ‘Liberty’ Mata
NYDIA ‘LIBERTY’ MATA — Rooted in the rhythms of her native Cuba. Nydia “Liberty†Mata is a dynamic percussionist and electrifying performer. Composer, arranger, and… Read More »Nydia ‘Liberty’ Mata
Michaelle Goerlitz
Michaelle Goerlitz has been playing drums and percussion since she was eight years old. After attending college in the Midwest, she moved to San Francisco… Read More »Michaelle Goerlitz
Luisah Teish
Luisah Teish is a WomanChief in the Ifa/Orisha tradition. She is a priestess of Oshun, the Yoruba Goddess of Love, Art, and Sensuality, and the… Read More »Luisah Teish
Janet Koike
Janet Koike’s passion for taiko has inspired original compositions, combining rhythm and movement into an exciting performance style. As a vital part of San Jose… Read More »Janet Koike