 Konate is 26-year veteran of Les Ballets Africains de Guinee, the original national performing group of Guinea that toured the world as musical “ambassadors”, representing the many cultures of Guinea, after its independence from France in 1958.Although Kourouma was already an accomplished drummer, living and performing with Konate improved his skills.As apprentice for Konate, Kourouma gained experience teaching drumming to the European guests that would visit Konate's compound each year, and also helped Kourouma learn Konate's techniques for drum building.