DRUM the Program, Inc 2307 County Road 46, Montevallo, AL 35115

DRUM the Program, Inc. is a nonprofit organization located at 2307 County Road 46 in Montevallo, Alabama. Our mission is to provide educational experiences in West African drum and dance that help develop Social-Emotional Learning Skills. We offer programs for both youth and adults in the community.

Elvie Schooley, a Licensed Master Social Worker and Executive Director of DRUM the Program, founded the organization to serve underserved individuals in the arts. She leads program development and implementation, and also serves as a dance instructor, educator, and guest speaker. Elvie is dedicated to helping students improve self-management and a sense of belonging through artistic expression.

Abou Sylla, a master percussionist and musician with over 25 years of experience, teaches West African music and dance at DRUM the Program. Abou was a member of Les Ballets Africains, the national dance company of Guinea, where he played multiple traditional West African instruments. He now splits his time between Montevallo, Alabama and Austin, Texas, where he shares the music and culture of West Africa with students and audiences worldwide.