Family First: The Beat of the Drum, African Drum Workshop With Kojo Bey + Drums 4 Life

Drumming is an ancient musical tradition that many cultures around the world use to energize, build unity, focus attention, relax, and heighten creativity.

Participants will experience hands-on instruction and learn playing techniques for instruments in the Jembe orchestra. The Jembe drum is an ancient hand drum originating in West Africa. Yaya Diallo, a Jembe drummer from Mali, explains, “We can’t remember a time when the Jembe was not in existence.” Participants will explore the many uses of the Jembe orchestra drums, music, dance movements, the history, songs, storytelling, choreography, and cultural lessons.

No matter what our age or ability, whenever we hear drumming, we all begin to move to those universal rhythms inside us. Ages 4 and up are welcome!

Family First is presented by Novant Health

Drums 4 Life Founder Kojo Bey has been performing and teaching on the Jembe drum for 25 years. He founded Nevada's first African dance and drum troupe and is co-founder of the NY tri-state area's Sounds of Afrika Drum and Dance Troupe. Since bringing Drums 4 Life to the Charlotte area, Kojo Bey has become well known for his educational and cultural lessons along with the group's energetic and engaging presentations. Bey pulls on his years of experience performing and teaching to engage all audiences. Drums 4 Life is more than entertainment, but is more of an edutainment experience.