Rhythms in Conservation – Virtual Master Workshop

Event Stream: https://dmr4u.com/ric-workshop

More Information: https://www.ajahfoundation.com

This workshop will be lead by the former drummer/percussionist of the International group Third World Willie Stewart O.D.

When we created Embrace Music Foundation in 2011, we had one goal: to save arts education (especially music) in schools. Alarming national and local funding trends indicated that arts education was jeopardized, with schools switching their focus from rounded educational curricula towards math and science solely based on concerns about passing national tests. This not only performs a disservice to the arts, it badly cheats students, especially those in at-risk schools where opportunities for arts education outside the classroom are scarce.

Our response was to develop and share our 90-minute performance program, *Rhythms
of Africa/Music Around the World* with selected schools and community groups, showing the power of music and its place in education and community. Our flagship program, it combines a teaching component for novice students who are joined by professional musicians on stage in a major local venue. Over the last nine years it has garnered great success and even a faithful following, and we are working on another program for 2022.

EMF Mission Statement: “To restore, preserve, and fortify the impact of music — education, appreciation, and performance

— in schools and communities, and to amplify its role in the development of children and families.”

Meanwhile, we’ve developed smaller, more flexible programs, some that reach many more audience members at once, others for smaller, more intimate venues. All provide a solid, transformational experience using many of the same tools and techniques as *Rhythms of Africa.*

We call one of these programs ” *Rhythms in Conversation* *,*” designed specifically in response to conditions imposed by the pandemic. It is an interactive, motivational percussion workshop designed to promote team-building and stress reduction while encouraging harmony and unity. As essential to its structure as percussion instruments, its tools include joy, laughter, and movement; lots of uplifting fun through music-making and rhythm. More intimate and focused, RIC features children and families sharing, engaging, and empowering our communities at large.

The program begins by introducing percussion instruments from around the world, including Africa, South America, Cuba, and the Caribbean. We explore various rhythms and their cultural evolution, from communication to celebration. We conduct interactive percussion games that turn bangs into beats, beats into rhythm, and rhythm into music. This workshop is designed to tune and energize the body physically, mentally, and spiritually

A selection of musical treatments addressed:

– Africa (Nigeria and Ghana) tribal chant and welcoming songs – An Introduction to a sizzling session in Brazilian Batucada Samba – Quick Jam History of Jamaican Music “No Problem Man”
– A magical visit to Cuban rhythm
– A “Hot Hot Hot conga line spicy sounds of Soca and Calypso music from Trinidad & Tobago and Montserrat