Brandon Grant (emphatically/him)

Multi-percussionist, Drum Coordinator, Educator and Ensemble Member

Training and Background
Brandon Grant’s journey with West African drumming began in late 2009 at the Youth Villages campus in Douglasville, Georgia. Under the guidance of Tom Harris, the Youth Villages Drumming Instructor, Brandon not only mastered the fundamentals of West African drumming but also learned how to teach drumming as a therapeutic tool for youth with emotional and behavioral challenges.

Brandon graduated from Tom’s Therapeutic Drumming Instructor training program and went on to serve as a Drumming Instructor for residential facilities for youth in West Virginia and North Carolina. During this time, he had the privilege of leading his students in performances at notable venues such as the Pittsburgh Zoo and the National Re-Ed Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. Through his work, Brandon has witnessed firsthand how drumming can empower youth, build confidence, and create a sense of community.

Musical Studies
Brandon has deepened his knowledge of West African music through studies with renowned artists, including Aly Mendra Camara, Fode Lavia Camara, Mohamed DaCosta, and most recently, Aboubacar Sylla in Austin, Texas.

Role in Lannaya
Brandon’s background in therapeutic drumming brings a unique dimension to Lannaya, enriching the ensemble’s mission to share the rich cultural legacy of West African drum and dance. These traditions foster unity, joy, and a deep sense of belonging, which Brandon is passionate about sharing with audiences and communities.

Looking Ahead
Brandon is dedicated to continuing to share the joy and cultural significance of West African drumming, inspiring audiences and fostering connections through his work with Lannaya.