In 1995, the Mitchell Family formed The Ibeji Drum Ensemble to "edu-tain" (educate and entertain) audiences of all ages and ethnicities, seeking to preserve and cultivate an awareness of the rich musical traditions of West Africa.

The Ibeji Drum Ensemble was founded by Dr. Anthony B. Mitchell (Baba Tony), Beatrice Y. Mitchell (Iya Bea) and their twin sons, Anthony Jr. and Dante. Ibeji means "twins" in the West African Yoruba tradition. As a family, the Mitchells embody the traditional musical heritage of Africa.

The Mitchells have traveled numerous times to the West African countries of Guinea, Senegal, and Ghana, as well as to Cuba to study traditional drum, dance, and culture.