May 18-20, 2007
"The earliest experience is of the rhythms of the heartbeat, so we're all initially connected to and aware of rhythm. The music already exists within us." Give birth to the power and strength of healing and creativity. Drum from the heart; celebrate our heart connection; connect with your personal power; feel the rhythm of life; give yourself the gift of delight; find vital new enthusiasm. Ubaka's spirited and engaging guidance leads us into our own personal power through intuitive drumming, storytelling, chanting, and drumsongs. And drumming is fun!
Ubaka Hill's popular workshops provide the beginning and intermediate drummer with a foundation in the universal language of drumsong – the exploration of rhythm and resonance. She infuses her workshops with humor, grace, and wisdom, as we explore the art and spirit of drumming as a pathway to connection with our own inner rhythm and authentic self‑expression. Experience the energizing, unifying, and revitalizing effects of individual and group playing and improvising. Learn about developing and improving playing techniques, breathing, playing posture, concentration, and physical dexterity. We'll also explore drum etiquette, acquiring a drum, care and maintenance of drums, and drum tuning. All drums, rattles, singing bowls, and melodic instruments are welcome. No previous experience with drumming is needed. "Learn at your own pace; play from your center."
Ubaka Hill, a nationally known drummer, storyteller, teacher, performer, and visual artist, began drumming professionally with a local jazz group when she was 18. The root of her drumsong is primarily intuitive, inspired by the rhythmic drumming traditions of North and West Africa, Latin America, the Caribbean, American Jazz, and Shamanism, interwoven with poetry and song. With great energy, talent, and sensitivity, she brings drums, percussion, poetry, and song together to touch people, build community, heal, and bring forth personal joy and liberation. As a teacher, she has the unique ability to make drumming easily accessible to all who want to feel their own voices through the voices of drums. One of thirteen children, she considers Harriet Tubman to be her personal mentor. ShapeShifterS, the name of her all‑women performance ensemble, is also a best‑selling CD, as is Dance the Spiral Dance. She founded The Drumsong Institute and is musical director of the Drumsong Orchestra. She is wonderful, and we’re delighted she is returning.
"Thank you for introducing me to Ubaka Hill's music. It is refreshing, exhilarating and inspiring! The simplicity of drum, poetry, and music is positively holy! May she reign for a long time!" – Rhodessa Jones (Performance Artist, Founder and Director of the Media Project)