From Eugene, Oregon, violist Fatima S. Gassama is a graduate of the University of Iowa, where she received a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Viola Performance under the tutelage of Christine Rutledge. She was the primary violist in the Center for New Music Ensemble at the University of Iowa and also minored in Chamber Music Entrepreneurship. Dr. Gassama has a Bachelor of Music degree from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music and a Master of Music degree from Boston University. Her other past instructors include Peter Slowik, Michelle LaCourse, and Daniel Doña.

Dr. Gassama has performed as a subsitute member of the Iowa City-based Oak Quartet for several of their Candlelight Concerts across Iowa, playing various sets such as Pop, Holiday, and Film.

Dr. Gasssama developed a strong passion for historical performance while an graduate student and has continued to pursue it ever since, currently touring with the DC-based period instrument ensemble the Smithsonian Academy Orchestra.

Also a dancer, Dr. Gassama has a passion for interdisciplinary collaboration, and has enjoyed working with various directors and choreographers to help create productions.