Thione Diop is a Senegalese percussionist and master of the djembe, sabar, tama, and djun djun. Hailing from an ancestral line of Griot drummers in Senegal, West Africa, Diop is known for his powerfully expressive djembe performances. He is also a gifted teacher and mentor and has trained many of the world's leading djembe players. Diop has performed and recorded with many notable musicians, including Cheikh Lo, Baaba Maal, and Youssou N'Dour. He has toured globally, sharing his love of African music and culture with audiences everywhere. He created a Seattle-based event called Spirit of Africa Festival, celebrating African culture and raising awareness of social issues.