Baba Roots
Bobby Bovenzi | Master Drum Circle Facilitator
Who is Baba Roots?
Bobby Majxe’ William Bovenzi has been a student of ethnic percussion and dance since 1994. He holds a BS in African & Afro-American Studies and an MS in Elementary Education from SUNY Brockport. Bringing music and dance into classrooms and communities is his life’s work.
What can Baba Roots do?
Classes
Learn drumming techniques and traditional West African Rhythms on Djembe and Dunun stick drums. Drop-ins welcome! Drums available for use free of charge.
School Assemblies
Guide your school through a rhythmic journey in which every person present has an active role. Groups will learn & perform poly rhythms on drums to enforce geography, unity and cultural acceptance. (45min-90min)
Performances
Looking for an incredible addition to your next festival, concert, or showcase? Look no further than Baba Roots and the Nankama Drum & Dance Troupe!
In-School Residencies
Bobby’s teaching mastery will ignite your school for up to a week full of rhythm games, cultural appreciation, teamwork and Jam Camp-style fun! Allow even the shyest child the opportunity to be showcased with confidence.
Private Events
Make your next work retreat, sorority event, or private party one to remember! We’ll supply the instruments; you supply the participants!
Pro-D Days
Baba Roots offers a unique training opportunity that assists music teachers and dance teachers in developing a professional quality traveling cultural ensemble that will delight and engage the entire community!
Upcoming Events
April 2025
4th: Drum Circle Workshop @ Vernon Trinity United Church, 3300 Alexis Park Drive 5:30-7pm, Advanced 7:15-9pm 🥁
7th-11th: Drum Dance Sing Artist Residency @ Raymer Elementary School 🏫
15th: Drum Dance Sing Artist Residency @ Osoyoos Elementary School 🏫
28th-May 2nd: Drum Dance Sing Artist Residency @ Belgo Elementary School 🏫
May 2025
12th-14th: Drum Dance Sing Artist Residency @ Summerland Montessori School 🏫
15th: ARC Conference Closing Celebration, Laurel Packing House Kelowna 🥁
June 2025
1st: Venables Volunteer Appreciation Party 🥁
2nd-6th: Drum Dance Sing Artist Residency @ Okanagan Falls Elementary School 🏫
21st:1:00pm Stone Circle Retreat Drum Circle 🥁
27th: 5:30pm West Kelowna Music In The Park Nankama Drum & Dance performance and Drum Circle 🎵
July 2025
3rd, 7:00pm: Nankama Drum & Dance performance and drum circle @ Frog City Cafe, 351 Linden Ave, Kaleden 🎵
5th: [Private Event] Nankama Drum & Dance performance and drum circle @ Richter Pass Beach Resort 🎵
8th: 10am Peachland Library Drum Circle 🥁
11th: 2:00pm Angus Assisted Living 🥁
13th-18th: Jam Camp on the River 🏕️
22nd:6:30-7:30 Okanagan Falls Library Drum Circle 🥁
29th: 6:45-7:45 Summerland Library Drum Circle 🥁
August 2025
6th, 6:30pm: Music in the Park - Drum & Dance performance and drum circle @ Summerland Memorial Park 🎵
6th-8th: Peach Fest Kid Zone Drum Circle (Time TBD) 🎪
10th-15th: Jam Camp on the Island 🏝️
Weekly Classes
Thursdays, 6:30-8:30pm $20: Weekly Nankama Drum & Dance rehearsal classes @ Concordia Lutheran Gym, 2800 S Main, Penticton
* Wednesday 4/16
April 24
May 8, 15, 22
June 12, 19, 26
July 10, 24, 31