Kahlil Cummings

Greater Los Angeles Los Angeles County African/African-American Music

Kahlil Cummings was born in Los Angeles, California.  It was clear at a very young age that world music captured his interest.  Kahlil grew up sourrounded by Afro-Brazilian, Cuban, and West African music, and begain studying percussion intensively under the direction of his father, Rahsan Cummings.  He has also studied with many master drummers and musicians, such as Mamady Keita, Amen Santo, Felipe Garcia, Cha’ Cha, and Monyungo Jackson.  Kahlil is a Tam Tam Mandingue certified professor and teaches classes at Motherland Music in Los Angeles.

Apprenticeship Program

2020

Kahlil is working with apprentice Anthony Williams to deepen Anthony’s understanding of the basic rudiments that accompany the Djembe and Dunun drum technique from the Manding tradition. They are focusing on the history, purpose, meaning and rhythmic techniques of four to five rhythms, including traditional improvisation/solo techniques that accent the dance movements for the selected rhythms. Each rhythm will be accompanied by a song and a translation, providing a full experience for each rhythm and technique.

Traditional Arts Development Program

2011

In 2011, Kahlil participated in ACTA’s (retired) Traditional Arts Development Program, which supported a mentorship with masters Mamady Keita and Famoudou Konate, allowing for their travel to Los Angeles to teach a series of Master Djembe/Dunun Workshops.  The workshops were presented for Kahlil’s drum and dance group, Balandugu Kan, and were open to the community.