Drums And Percussion Across The Globe

Drums And Percussion Across the Globe residencies and workshops are designed to open up a whole new world of sonic experiences for students from K-12. Ian shares his vast knowledge and expertise on a wide range of drums, melodic percussion and shakers from Africa, the Middle East, South America and Europe. Instruments include the African talking drum, Kalimbas (East African thumb pianos), Cajon (Peruvian box drum), Hang (Swiss melodic percussion instrument), the Balafon (West African marimba) and Doumbek (pan-Arabic goblet drum).

In a residency format, Ian expands the program to include instruction in selected indigenous rhythms from around the globe and, if possible, direct the students to learn and perform these rhythms in a culminating performance at the conclusion of the program. This process encourages students to gain confidence in their innate rhythmic ability, while engaging in joyful collaboration with their peers. 

For a workshop format, Ian demonstrates and provides historical and social context for each instrument and, when appropriate, invites students up to try them out. If the school has audio/visual capabilities at the site, Ian likes to share a few relevant brief video clips of the instruments played in their indigenous environments. If the school has drums and assorted percussion instruments available, Ian engages the students in a session of rhythmic discovery, using call-and-response and synchronous playing.

For a sample of Ian's artistry, please click below: