Melissa Hié makes her UK debut at the Wooden Roots Experience—and she’s bringing serious energy with her. Originally from Burkina Faso and now based in France, she’s long heard about the event from fellow artists, especially Harouna Dembele.

Raised in a family of musicians, Melissa was performing from a young age. Taught by her father, she mastered multiple instruments—balafon, barra, and djembe—building a deep foundation in traditional African rhythms. By age nine, she had already claimed the djembe as her voice, developing a signature style that’s both soft and melodic.

Since then, she’s played across bands and collaborations, expanding her range with instruments like the conga and exploring singing, dance, and digital production. Her work includes major collaborations with artists such as Damon Albarn and Fatoumata Diawara.

Today, Melissa pushes boundaries—blending jazz, electronic, and traditional sounds into something entirely her own.

Melissa will be teaching Improver-Advanced DJEMBE workshops at The Experience on BOTH DAYS and she will also be doing a couple of specialty workshops too! 

Harouna Dembélé is a highly respected West African percussionist, dancer and teacher, originally from Burkina Faso. Born into a rich cultural tradition, he grew up surrounded by rhythm and ceremony, developing a deep understanding of the djembe and dundun as both musical and cultural instruments.

Known for his powerful playing style, precision, and infectious energy, Harouna has performed and taught extensively across Africa, Europe and beyond. His approach blends traditional authenticity with a dynamic, engaging teaching style that makes his workshops accessible to all levels—from complete beginners to experienced players.

As well as being an accomplished musician, Harouna is a passionate cultural ambassador, dedicated to sharing the history, meaning and spirit behind West African rhythms and dance. His sessions are not just about learning patterns, but about connection, expression and community.

At the Wooden Roots Experience, Harouna brings a wealth of knowledge, vibrant energy and a truly inspiring presence, offering participants a chance to deepen their understanding while fully immersing themselves in the rhythm.

Harouna will be teaching Improver-Advanced DJEMBE workshops at The Experience on BOTH DAYS and he will also be doing a couple of specialty workshops too! 

Aida, a household name in the world of West African dance in the UK with her grace, strength and deeply rooted connection to traditional dance. Growing up immersed in the vibrant rhythms and movements of Senegalese culture, she developed a style that is both authentic and captivating.

Aïda has performed and taught internationally, sharing her knowledge of Sabar and Djembe combined with traditional West African dance with energy, passion and precision. Her teaching style is inclusive and uplifting, creating a space where participants of all levels feel confident to explore movement, musicality and self-expression.

More than just a dancer, Aïda is a dedicated cultural ambassador, bringing the stories, traditions and spirit behind the dances to life in every session. Her presence is both inspiring and empowering, leaving a lasting impression on everyone she works with.

We are delighted to welcome Aïda back for her second Wooden Roots Experience. After making such a strong impact previously, her return brings both familiarity and excitement, offering participants another opportunity to learn from her unique energy, depth and artistry. The dance workshops are directed at beginner to intermediate and every level will be challenged within and out of their comfort zone.  We definitely challenge you to give dance a go!

Mohamed Gueye is an exceptional West African artist, percussionist and educator, originally from Senegal. Raised in a deeply musical environment, he was immersed from an early age in the rich traditions of Sabar drumming and dance, developing a powerful connection to rhythm, movement and cultural expression.

Renowned for his explosive energy, technical mastery and versatility, Mohamed is a captivating performer and an inspiring teacher. He has shared his skills internationally, leading workshops and performing across Europe and can regularly be found in Mayfair, London performing with his djembe at some very fancy clubs, where his dynamic presence and deep knowledge leave a lasting impact on students and audiences alike.

Mohamed’s teaching goes beyond technique—he brings the spirit, history and cultural context of the rhythms to life, creating an engaging and immersive experience for participants of all levels. His passion for sharing Senegalese culture shines through in every session, encouraging connection, confidence and joy through rhythm and movement.

At the Wooden Roots Experience, Mohamed brings high energy, authenticity and a truly uplifting vibe, offering an unforgettable journey into the heart of West African drumming and dance. Mohamed will be leading the dance classes from his djembe at The Wooden Roots Experience and working alongside Aida so you can rest assured the dance classes will be on fire!

Welcome to the world of Sidiki Dembele, where the vibrant rhythms of traditional African music come alive and warm the soul. 

A multi-instrumentalist originally from the Ivory Coast, Sidiki comes from a celebrated Malian griot family of musicians, diplomats, and oral historians.  Raised in the rich cultural traditions of his ancestors, he began his musical journey at the tender age of five. 

By the time he was ten, Sidiki was playing professionally at prestigious events and by fourteen, he was travelling across West Africa, performing as part of various African ballet companies and leading as a musical director. 

Music is truly in his blood. Which is why we have worked with Sidiki to curate this year’s concert finale on Sunday evening. Tickets are now on sale for the Sunday evening concert via Britten Pears Box office and if you purchase a weekend or day ticket for workshops via Wooden Roots you will automatically receive a 20% off code for the concert.

Sidiki will also be teaching on Saturday so you can definitely get to learn from this master.