Welcome
"That was devine, magnificient, glorious, majestial, do not stop looking higher!
You made the difference! The only group that raised the auditorium with shouts
of joy, full of emotions and ENERGY!
Thank you for this wonderful trip for our children with whom you have revealed a divine gift"
(Parent feedback - Ms Michele-Rose)
Testimonials
Mrs Nicky Wright
Executive Head Teacher at
South Camberley Primary School
I first had the pleasure of working with Remi in 2016, when I invited him to support a class that had become disaffected and disengaged. His impact was immediate and profound. Through his dynamic and inclusive drumming sessions, the engagement of the children soared, and we saw a marked improvement in self-esteem, particularly through the regular performances he facilitated. These events not only showcased the children’s progress but also gave them a sense of pride and accomplishment. When I transitioned to a new school, I knew I wanted Remi to continue working with children and bring his expertise and enthusiasm to my new school. His teaching is exceptional - he works with children from Year 3 to Year 6, and it’s remarkable how quickly they develop proficiency and confidence under his guidance. His lessons bring a whole new dimension to our music curriculum, making it vibrant, rhythmic, and culturally rich. Remi also runs popular drumming clubs and regularly organises performances for parents, which are always well-received. He has been instrumental in supporting our cultural events, adding depth and energy to our celebrations. The children absolutely love working with Remi, and his contribution to our school community is invaluable.
Mrs Naheeda Maharasingam
Headteacher at
Rathfern Primary School
Daniel Bishop
Headteacher at
Allenby Primary School
For many years, Remi has been an integral part of Rathern's musical life, inspiring generations of children through the power and beauty of Djembe drumming. His teaching is truly exceptional - blending musical mastery, deep cultural understanding, and a magnetic ability to engage every child and adult. Through his work, our pupils have performed on some of the most prestigious stages, including the Royal Festival Hall and Blackheath Concert Halls, as well as countless school performances that have captivated and uplifted audiences. His sessions are transformative - children learn more than rhythm; they experience discipline, focus, and joy through music. The ancient rhythms he shares connect children to something profoundly human and spiritual - a sense of unity, belonging, and creativity that is rarely experienced in schools today. We are deeply grateful for his enduring commitment, artistry, and the way he continues to ignite passion, confidence, and wonder in our young people. His contribution to our community is immeasurable.
We have been working with London Cultural Education for over six years, and I can honestly say they have transformed the way we share and enjoy music at Allenby. Remi, our instructor, is one of the most passionate music educators I have ever met. His knowledge of the djembe is unrivalled, and he always goes the extra mile - explaining where patterns originate and what they mean. Our children love learning the stories and cultural meanings behind their performances. Every term, Remi works with our classes to produce an end-of-unit performance, usually in front of the whole school community and families. This includes an end-of-year show by our Year 6 pupils, giving them the chance to shine on stage and showcase their wonderful learning. These performances are a huge motivator for our younger children, who look forward to beginning their drumming journey in Key Stage 2. Remi is fantastic with our community and often invites parents to join in, allowing families to share in their children’s achievements - sometimes even giving mums and dads a chance to have a go too! We use Remi to both enrich and support our music curriculum, with pupils not only learning patterns and songs but also creating their own music. They explore rhythms from both Africa and South America, and through this they gain an understanding of the geography, history, and cultural context behind the patterns. Remi has covered both PPA and music lessons for us and has built a strong rapport with children and staff alike. The team at London Cultural Education is incredibly professional, and this continued even during school closures, when lessons still took place virtually. You kept us drumming.
Dr Maria Krevinski
Lecturer in Music at
Goldsmiths
University of London
Creative, inclusive, and musically exciting. I observed several of Remi Uzdras’s primary-school djembe sessions through Lewisham Music and was consistently impressed. He tailors parts to participants’ current abilities without lowering the bar, so the ensemble sounds cohesive and alive. Even in large groups, Remi spots who needs support, gives brief one-to-one coaching, and builds peer support into the session. One of the most musically rewarding aspects of his workshops is that Remi models roles from within the ensemble, motivating participants and then handing those roles to those who are ready to step forward. The energy in the room is infectious and the musical results are consistently strong. Being in his workshops is both a rich learning experience and real music-making.
Performances
What we do
At London Cultural Education, we deliver high-quality Djembe drumming workshops and music enrichment programmes designed specifically for KS2 whole-class settings. Our sessions are energetic, inclusive, culturally rich, and accessible to every learner - regardless of musical background or ability. We use traditional West African percussion as a powerful educational tool to develop musicianship, confidence, teamwork, focus, and creativity. Sessions can be delivered as one-off taster sessions, termly programmes, or full-year residencies, and are booked on a half-day or full-day basis. KS2 Whole-Class Djembe Drumming Our Djembe workshops bring rhythm, culture, and creativity directly into the classroom. Pupils learn: foundational djembe technique traditional West African rhythms ensemble skills and teamwork call-and-response patterns improvisation and group composition performance preparation traditional West African songs, supporting foreign language learning Each lesson is built to foster instant engagement, high energy, and a “feel-good factor” that motivates pupils across the whole school. Cross-Curricular Learning Our music programme naturally enhances learning across the curriculum. Through rhythm, language, movement, and cultural exploration, pupils make meaningful connections with: Geography Origins of the djembe and its cultural roots Exploring West African regions, communities, and traditions Understanding cultural exchange and the movement of music History The historical and social role of drumming in West African life Music in ceremonies, storytelling, and celebrations How rhythms have evolved and influenced global music traditions Literacy Call-and-response language development Rhythm-based storytelling Building vocabulary connected to culture and music Opportunities for reflective writing and performance notes Maths Beat, pulse, and timing Fractions and division through rhythmic patterns Sequencing and pattern recognition Counting structures in traditional ensembles Foreign Language Learning Singing traditional West African songs in languages such as Wolof, Maninka, and Bambara Learning pronunciation through rhythm and melody Understanding meaning and cultural context behind the lyrics Building confidence in phonetic awareness and linguistic curiosity This multidimensional approach brings subjects to life, making learning memorable and deeply engaging. Performance Opportunities We specialise in preparing pupils for inspiring performances, including: School assemblies Community events End-of-term and end-of-year celebrations Outdoor venues These performances build confidence, celebrate achievement, and strengthen community spirit.
Instruments
Djembe drum (standard size)
11" head diameter
23" height
Iroko wood
Bass drum set of tree:
Dundumba drum
20" head diameter, 22" height
Sangban drum
11" head diameter, 20" height
Kenkeni drum
9" head diameter, 16' height
Carved out of Dimba hardwood
Shekere (XL)
Furrowed surface for loud projection
Extremely durable fibreglass construction
Adjustable head net
Rubber lip assuring maximum comfort
Cowbell set of three
Stainless steel
For schools that do not already have their own instruments, we can provide a full class set of 30 Djembe drums, along with a set of three bass drums to support ensemble playing and authentic West African rhythmic structure.
Using the correct instruments is essential - not only for sound quality, but also for children’s posture and playing technique. We recommend the standard Djembe size (11” head, 23” height), which allows pupils to sit comfortably, maintain proper posture, and produce clear, well-defined tones.
Our Djembes are carved from high-quality hardwoods traditionaly used in West Africa, including Lenke, Iroko and dimba. These woods are known for their rich tonal character, powerful projection and making them far more durable than lightweight or synthetic drums. The wood is impregnated with natural oils to protect against humidity and reduce the risk of cracking.
If your school would like to hire or purchase a full class set, please contact us for options and pricing.
About Us
Remi Uzdras
Percussion Specialist &
Music Educator
London Cultural Education is a specialist provider of high-quality Djembe drumming, performing arts, and creative enrichment programmes for primary and secondary schools.
Founded by Remi Uzdras in 2014, the company builds on over 15 years of experience delivering dynamic music and cultural education across London and beyond. Our programmes are known for their high energy, instant engagement, inclusivity, and strong cultural foundations, making them accessible and inspiring for all learners.
Our teaching quality has been recognised at the highest level:
Remi’s sessions have been observed twice by OFSTED and rated Outstanding for specialist workshop delivery.
We also contribute to the training of future educators.
Remi served as a reference educator and mentor on behalf of Lewisham Music for Goldsmiths, University of London, collaborating with students in the “Striking Gold” teaching module. Students attended his sessions to observe, participate, and gain real classroom experience-bridging academic learning with practical teaching.
We specialise in preparing pupils for performances ranging from school assemblies to major public events. Remi has led children’s groups and performed at prestigious venues and has also performed as an artist in major cultural events alongside internationally recognised performers including:
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Royal Festival Hall (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2018)
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Hyde Park-Nelson Mandela’s 90th Birthday Celebration (2008)
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Blackheath Concert Halls
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WOMAD Festival 2011, performing with world-renowned Senegalese artist Baaba Maal
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Numerous collaborative events with Wandsworth, Hackney, Ealing and Lewisham Music Hubs and cultural partners
Our programmes help schools deliver vibrant, culturally rich learning that develops confidence, teamwork, creativity, rhythmic understanding, and wellbeing.
London Cultural Education provides all instruments, curriculum-aligned planning, and flexible delivery options-from one-off workshops to full-term residencies and performance preparations.
Our mission is to inspire young people through rhythm, creativity, and meaningful cultural experiences, empowering every pupil to shine on stage and beyond.
