A DRUMMER'S JOURNEY

On April 20 in the Graduate Hospital neighborhood, BuildaBridge will be hosting an inspiring group of African drumming instructors and performers. Come celebrate the therapeutic power of art-making through drumming.

PHILADELPHIA, PA, April 7th from 3-5 pm: Art-making is inherently therapeutic and a key component of well-being. Come join the arts and education organization BuildaBridge for an afternoon of healing and strengthening drumming with Philadelphia African drumming legends. 

WHEN: Sunday, April 7, from 3-5:00 pm

WHERE: South of South Neighborhood Association Office (SOSNA), located at 1901 Washington Ave Unit B, Philadelphia, PA 19146. Entrance is on 19th Street.

WHY: Drumming brings people together. Communities perform better when we know each other better.

This event features world-class percussionists Roberta Kenyatta, Bobby Conga, Omomola Iyabunmi and Sam Zolten. Robert Kenyatta is known for his work with John Coltrane and the Beach Boys. Kenyatta also appeared on Coltrane’s Grammy award-winning Temple University recording from 1966.  Growing up with his mother in Count Basie’s band, producer and percussionist Bobby Conga’s life has always been “on the one”, as evident by his work with Grover Washington Jr. and beyond. We receive great insight into the African percussive tradition through the brilliant work of Omomola Iyabunmi, known for her masterful shekere playing and teaching (African gourd instrument). Ms. Iyabunmi says, “African culture expresses the life of the people” and uses her abilities to reclaim, preserve and present the tradition to the best of her ability. As a lifelong drummer and long-time BuildaBridge supporter, the percussive work of Sam Zolten emphasizes listening, reacting and floating along the music. 

This is an excellent opportunity to learn from our revered community members while creating incredible music with them. Release yourself from the stress of the daily grind and take some time to let the sounds and rhythms of the drum bring your body and soul to life. We encourage our participants to “Come to play. Come to enjoy. Come as you are” and learn to “stay on your one,” -- a foundational teaching metaphor used by our performers and teachers.  

We celebrate not only the joy of drumming but also the past and present of Philadelphia's rich musical legacy. This is an opportunity to interact with the players and see firsthand the difference art-making has made in their lives and communities. Music has always been the city's beating cultural heart and a well-paved pathway to healing.

Ticketing and donation information can be found here or here: https://tinyurl.com/BaBDrummersJourney.