Hand Drum Ensemble

…through drumming we hope to participate in the universal language of rhythm that cuts across all geographical and social borders…

Students in this ensemble prepare and perform rhythms from percussion communities around the world. Many of these rhythms would be associated with communal dancing and/or singing, but we believe the rhythms are equally powerful and enthralling when performed by themselves.

The ensemble is open to all college students, regardless of major or experience [M. 5-6 & Th. 12-12:50] and provides consistent opportunities to engage in community outreach and touring.

Upcoming Performances:  2012-13
CSS Rock Show:  Dec. 6th, Mitchell Auditorium, 7:30, Tickets
CSS The Rhythm is in Our System, April 6th, Mitchell Aud. 7:30, Tickets

---

Current Members:  Chris Belich, Sarah Bivona, Whitney Bertram, Sarah Michael Brannan, Danielle Collins, Jestine Dennis, Zack Kusz, Alexis Leblanc, Megan Meyerand Katherine Schumacher.

Past performances:  Elementary Schools (Lester Park, Congdon Park, Homecroft, Piedmont, Grant Nettleton, Lowell, and Kenwood Edison) CSS Haitian Benefit,  Holy Rosary Catholic School, St. John's Catholic School, St. Michael's School, Congdon Creek Preschool,  Northwood's Children's Home (East & West campuses), Lincoln Park and Morgan Park Middle Schools, Community Drumming Concert benefitting CHUM, Annual performances for CSS's United for Africa Festival, Duluth Battle of the Bands, CSS Community Day, Admissions Open House(s)/Jam sessions in the Union, Benedictine Health Center & Westwood Community Home

---

Hand Drum Ensemble Commission Series: The piece, Akom, was written for this ensemble by composer, Christopher Lee. He writes of the work:  Akom is an African ceremonial music performed to compel spirits to enter the human realm. It is an integral part of traditional religious expression among the Akan people of Ghana, and is used as a medium for healing through possession and trance. Akom is the Akan word used in Ghana to talk about spirit possession and the ritualistic drum music and chants that invoke the spirits. These spirits and deities, which are believed to abound in the region, are associated with natural features such as mountains, rivers, trees, and stones.

To watch and listen to our premiere performance of Akom, click here-