Traditional rhythms and dances, original music — brought directly to your space.
Studied in Guinea Conakry (Le Bagataye, '23, &'18)
Studied Afro-Cuban Folkloric Music & Dance Abroad ('25)
Featured on PBS "A House for The Arts"
More than 50 schools & colleges served
150+ shows & workshops
96% teacher satisfaction
Aligned to NYS Arts Standards 1‑4 & SEL competencies
Listed with BOCES Arts‑in‑Education (Co‑Ser 411) — aid‑eligible for all NY districts.
[View my listing ↗]
Assemblies
*Assemblies — “Rhythms of the Diaspora Experience”
Bring the full drum‑dance ensemble!
90‑minute cultural immersion that fuses West African djembe, Afro‑Cuban conga, song, and audience call‑and‑response.
Students learn the story behind rhythms, try body‑percussion drills from their seats, select students will actively drum on authentic instruments, then a live performance finale that leaves the gym buzzing.
Investment: $3,000 – $4,000
(venue size & tech needs determine the final quote).
Add a 60‑min breakout workshop for targeted classes (+ $1,200) or a 120‑min masterclass for performance groups (+ $1,700).
*Most popular, $3300 w/ full ensemble , drums, and two 45 minute interactive assemblies.
Residencies
Residencies — “Culture in Motion”
Deep‑dive over multiple weeks to weave music, movement, history, and SEL into your existing curriculum.
Each 90‑minute session can be split into two 45‑minute blocks (e.g., Grades 3‑4 then 5‑6).
Sessions/Week Rate per Session*
Perfect for…
1 session $715 Small pilot program
2 sessions $660 Alternating grade bands
3 sessions $550 Whole‑school rotation
4 sessions $495 Magnet or community‑school model
*Minimum four‑week run.
Tie the residency to Black History Month, World Music, or end‑of‑term showcase.
*Add an extra teaching artist any week for richer sectionals (+ see price list below).
*Session prices are based on 4 week minimum with reduced price per additional day or 'session' per week. 4 sessions = 4 x 90 minute sessions a week for 4 weeks = $2000/wk or $8k/month (4 sessions a week for 90 min)
Workshops
Workshops — “Rhythms of The Diaspora”
Ideal for music ensembles, dance teams, or PE electives that want hands‑on skill building without a full assembly.
Choose 60‑minute or 120‑minute formats, delivered on the same day as an assembly or à‑la‑carte.
60 min Breakout: technique drills, instrument care, and a short choreography phrase — $1,200
120 min Immersion: deep repertoire work, improvisation coaching, and small‑group rotations — $1,700
Need an extra pair of hands? Add a second artist for tighter instructor‑to‑student ratios:
Extra Artist Sessions/Week Rate
1 session $925
2 sessions $835
3 sessions $720
4 sessions $655
Solo requests (60‑90 min keynote or demo) start at $900‑$1,200. Travel beyond 250 miles priced separately.
About
I’m Jordan Taylor Hill — an artist and educator rooted in the powerful rhythms of West Africa, Afro-Cuban Folklore, and the larger 'diaspora'. For over a decade, I’ve helped schools, festivals, and community organizations create unforgettable drum and dance experiences that bring people together. If you’re ready for an engaging, interactive performance that gets every student or audience member involved, let’s make it happen.
Typical investment: Assemblies $1.5‑1.8 k · Half‑day workshops $2‑2.4 k · 3‑day residencies $4.5‑5.5 k (BOCES aid‑eligible)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much class time does this take?
A standard assembly runs 45 minutes—same as one period. Workshops slot into PE or music blocks, and residencies can be tailored from one day to a full week.
Will it be too loud for nearby classrooms?
We cap volume at ≈85 dB (pep‑band level) and schedule sessions in gyms, cafeterias, or auditoriums. No surprise noise during testing windows.
What space and gear do you need?
20 × 20 ft clear floor, two tables, one outlet. I bring all drums, mics, and a PA if your venue lacks one.
How many students can participate at once?
Up to 20 per session on drums; unlimited for audience clap‑and‑move segments. Larger groups rotate through stations or book multiple blocks.
Is this aligned with NY Learning Standards?
Yes—NYS Arts Anchor Standards 1‑4 plus SEL “Relationship Skills.” Listed under BOCES Arts‑in‑Ed Co‑Ser 411, so districts earn aid on the fee.
What does it cost—and is it aid‑eligible?
Assemblies start at $1,500; multi‑day residencies at $4,500 (all prices include the BOCES 15 % coordination fee and are aid‑eligible).
Are students just watching or actually drumming?
They’re drumming, moving, and singing—every session ends with a drum circle/dance session.
How do we book?
Click “Book a 15‑min Planning Call” or fill out the Quote Form; you’ll get a date hold.
*Insurance certificate on request