Around age 5, he was performing in church; and by the time he was a young teenager, he was invited to begin a professional career as a musician/artist among seasoned adult musicians and dancers. It was these adults who christened him as “The Doctor” because he had a mature, prodigal knowledge of his craft. They felt he could take any rhythm or sound and make it even better.
Having lived in Paris, France, for a dozen years, Dr. Djo Bi was able to involve himself with a wide variety of musical experiences. He was even involved with the African Museum in Brussels, Belgium, as part of a research group with Curator Anne Marie Bouttiaux returning with him to his village to learn about mask dance culture.
In 1997, Dr. Djo Bi moved to New York City where he founded and directed a group called Bangofla Music Ensemble. He has performed and educated across the States, particularly around New England and the Eastern seaboard while he lived in New York for 10 years. We are now blessed in the Midwest to have such a phenomenal and renowned African musician available to us.
Dr. Djo Bi has worked with students of all ages, from preschoolers to senior citizens. He has taught in public and private school settings, museums, drum and dance schools/camps, workshops and special events. Dr. Djo Bi loves his craft and lives with it every day. It is his mission to share his love of music with you.