Dhow Countries Music Academy

Founded in 2002 Dhow Countries Music Academy is recognized as one of East Africa's premier centers for music education. We train professional musicians, as well as amateurs. We also welcome everyone who wants to learn an instrument for enjoyment. DCMA specializes in teaching the unique traditional Swahili Music and aims to preserve and develop this intangible heritage and rich culture. DCMA also offers western music and special children classes.

How Can I join DCMA?

Everyone from 5 years of age onwards can become a student. For beginners admission is non-conditional on Preparatory-level, but if you want to start on a higher level it will require an interview.

Which instruments does DCMA offer?

Though specializing on traditional Arabic and African musical styles of the region, DCMA also gives you the opportunity to learn instruments used in Western music. Among the instruments taught are Oud, Qanun, Violin, Cello, Guitar, Bass, Piano/ Keyboard /Organ, Percussion (Ngoma, Drum set), Brass, Transverse flute and Accordion. Other subjects offered include Voice, Elementary Music Theory.

There are a number of school orchestras here at DCMA you could join. DCMA has Voice classes (Taarab only), Taarab ensembles and Western bands on various levels, as well as Ngoma, Kidumbaki and Traditional Drumming classes. A number of extra curricular activities like workshops, seminars, performances and exhibitions supplement our school program. DCMA is also involved in student exchange programs

What Are the Cost?

DCMA offers music lessons for minimum costs. After a one-time admission fee, students have to pay a monthly tuition fee for their instrument only. Enrolled students get 45 minutes weekly individual lesson. Group lessons, which are free of charge for the instrument students are 1h 30m. DCMA students may come to the school to practice by themselves

Where can I find DCMA?

We are located right at the seafront between the ferry harbor and the House of Wonders