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August
21, 2010
Brooklyn,
New York
MEDIA
RELEASE
For
Immediate Release
African
Drums to Roll Like Thunder In Brooklyn
SEQ
CHAPTER \h \r 1
Brooklyn, NY – To
describe the emotions stirred by music is a task which goes beyond
words. To put the magic of drum music into words is an even more
daunting task. Drums of Thunder is a unique musical experience
which, for the first time in New York City -- puts the spotlight on
the African drum in an all day festival. The event-- though a
celebration of the wonders of African influenced drumming-- is also a
unique competition. It is designed to give an opportunity to drummers
from across the Diaspora to showcase their musicianship and artistry.
On Saturday, August
21, the sound of the drums will roll like thunder when the event kicks
off at the Boys and Girls High School in Brooklyn. A production of the
Brotherhood of Man Youth Connection and C.A.R.E (Concerned Americans
For Racial Equality). Drums of Thunder has attracted audiences
from Boston to Washington who are expected to come by the bus loads to
support their favorite drummers.
In
Drums of Thunder, master drummers and drum ensembles from
across the Diaspora will compete for cash prizes and a challenge
trophy making this the veritable “World Cup” of drumming. The day
long competition will feature ensembles from Trinidad & Tobago,
Ghana, Haiti, Guyana, and the United States. Ensembles will be
required to play a piece of choice which incorporates the beats of
three nations Participants will be judged by a panel of expert
drummers who also reflect an eclectic Diasporan mix.
The event is the
brainchild of Rev. Andy Edwards who is the leader of the Brotherhood
of Man Spiritual Baptist/Orisha Church. “This idea was born out of a
desire to replicate the Emancipation celebration which takes place
annually in Trinidad & Tobago,” says Rev. Andy. “Though we
hope to one day have a full scale festival like in Trinidad &
Tobago, we felt that African drumming -- which is
the cornerstone of that celebration-- was the most transportable
segment and hence Drums of Thunder was born. “I believe that
it is incumbent upon us as Caribbean n people
living in the United States to engage in a meaningful celebration of
the abolition of chattel slavery in the region, “he adds.
As part of the
celebration there will be lectures on the history of the African drum,
drum making workshops and demonstrations, poetry and dance workshops.
Audience members will not be left out of the winnings as there will be
opportunities to win a free djembe among other giveaways.
In addition to the
ensembles competition, there will be a category for individual male
and female drummers. Prizes will be awarded to the three top place
finishers in the ensemble category and the best overall drummer in the
male and female individual categories. A special prize will also be
awarded for the best percussion section in the competition and the
oldest and youngest drummers.
The celebration kicks
off at 1:00 p.m. with a libation and a street drum call. Competition
begins at 3:00 p.m. For tickets and information
call 917-512-9778 or 718-623-8514.
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Photo Caption: Sons
of Thunder, one of the participating groups in the competition
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