The Bush Taxi Story
Over 20 years of obsession, travel, study, and joy. It started with a single drum and a lot of curiosity.
This was 2014 in Berlin, don't have photos of 2002 😅
2002 — The Spark
Andre started playing in 2002. What began as casual interest quickly became something deeper. He found himself rehearsing 6 to 8 hours a week, listening to CDs on repeat, trying to mimic the masters — and falling completely in love with the instrument.
Conakry 2013 with Mohammed Bangoura
Learning from the Masters
Over the years, Andre studied with countless Jembe Folas (master drummers) across Europe and West Africa. Key teachers include Mohammed Bangura in West Africa, Buba Diakite in Berlin, and Nathan Berg at Beat Etage in Berlin — close friends and musical companions who shaped his path.
The Dundun player at ADC 2018: Dundund, Sangban and Kenkeni
The Dundun Difference
From the very beginning, Andre learned the Dunduns alongside the Djembe. That decision 'pushed his musicality to the moon.' While most drummers focus only on Djembe, Andre was thought from the very beginning that the Dunduns are the heartbeat — without them, the rhythm has no foundation.
Kids session at Aldeia Djembe Camp in Portugal 2019
Teaching Across 4 Countries
Andre's teaching journey spans Brazil, Australia (school incursions in Brisbane & Sunshine Coast with Rhythm Culture), Germany (school incursions in Berlin, gigs with Nathan Berg at Beat Etage), and Portugal (co-organizer of Aldeia Djembe Camp, a week-long drum & dance event with international guests).
Playing in with Ballet Sourakhata in Conakry
West Africa — In the Flesh
Andre traveled to West Africa to study where this music was born. He played in several ballets (traditional drum and dance ensembles) and experienced firsthand what this music means to the artists there — and how deeply it is woven into their culture and daily life.
“It's a long way. It's a hard instrument to learn. It's not 'bunkaraba, bunkaraba, cantipa.' It's not a bongo. It is a Jembe. It carries the weight of its culture. And if you get into it — really into it — it's just really fun.”
The Bush Taxi Way
What to expect in every class
Physical
You'll sweat. This is basically sports.
Joyful
Laughter and good energy are non-negotiable.
Respectful
We honor the tradition while making it accessible.
Inclusive
All levels, all backgrounds, all welcome.
Both Instruments
Dundun and Djembe, always together.
Join the Rhythm
Your first class is free. Come find out why Andre has dedicated over 20 years to this music.
Book Your Free Class