IT'S OUR ANNIVERSARY!!!
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2018DRUM LIKE A LADY ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
The Drum Like A Lady 5th year anniversary celebration kicks off during the month of October, featuring 2 amazing events, featuring the accomplishments of Philadelphia's drumming women.
PECO Free First Sunday Family Day
10am - 4pm Art Making (indoors)
In celebration of the DesignPhiladelphia festival, we’ve partnered with the Center for Architecture and Design for hands-on art activities that will bring out your inner designer. Build structures, explore shapes and colors through mask making, and assemble festive sound instruments. Activities change throughout the day. All ages.
11am - 11:45am Storytime (indoors)
Tales for young imaginations!
11:30 - 12:00pm THE WELCOME (outdoors)
11:30am – 12pm KYO DAIKO
KyoDaiko is a Philadelphia-based, community taiko drumming group founded in 2005. All members are volunteers who perform for the love of the art and the energy that the great drums give them. They perform regularly at a wide range of venues from school and community events, to Phillies games, Japanese festivals, and more unusual settings like roller derbies! KyoDaiko offers regular taiko classes and can be hired for events, workshops and team-building activities.
Led by: Therese Stephen
Location: Outside by the fountain
12 – 12:30pm BATALA' PHILADELPHIA
Batalá Philadelphia is a non-profit Samba Reggae percussion band founded in 2017. We are part of the Batalá Mundo global arts project. Our mission is to enrich and inspire our communities by providing an Afro-Brazillian musical and cultural experience through arts education and live performances. Our distinct form of musical expression and cultural heritage from Salvador da Bahia, Brazil, is open to all individuals regardless of race, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or background.
Led by Cindy Lenti Penn
Location: Outside by the fountain
12:00 - 2:00pm OPEN STUDIO: LET'S CONNECT
Drop by the Mural Arts Studio to learn about reverse-glass artist Delia King and her work during open studio hours. Delia was selected for residency as a part of Let's Connect: Philly's Artists Take on the Barnes
1:00 - 2:45pm INTERACTIVE DRUM WORKSHOPS (Terrace)
1 – 1:45pm
Drum Workshop led by Karen Smith
Karen L. Smith, Lead percussionist & Artistic Director for Weez The Peeples Collective & Sistahs Laying Down Hands Collective, playwright, director, poet, producer was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York and attended Brooklyn College in the performing arts department as well as H. B. Studio for acting and movement. In the early 90's, Philadelphia became an interested as well as the various entertainment venues. Ms. Smith was born with the love of rhythmic energy and embraced percussion instruments at an early age. Karen has played with many groups, performing artists, workshops and was the lead percussionist for Ms. Debbie Allen's Artist in Residence program under the Mann Center for the Performing Arts. She also manages, Sistahs Laying Down Hands, all female percussive, poetry, storytelling, dance and drumming as well as written several plays with the most recent Legacy the play and Legacy II, Where are the Tubmans? which premieres this March at Rowan College. "The Arts are healing resources for all and everyone is welcome to get some of this medicine".Karen is currently the Program Manager for the Philadelphia Jazz Project.
2 – 2:45pm
Drum Workshop led by Jan Jeffries and M.O.M (Music Over Matter)
Jan Jeffries, known as Ms. Rhythm Speaker, is an unrivaled as a consummate percussionist. A long time resident of Hon. Hawaii, hails from Philadelphia where she began her career in dancing & drumming at the prestigious Sydney School of Dance. A lifetime of studying rhythms from around the world has made Jeffries well versed on a variety of hand percussion & drum kit techniques. She has performed, taught, composed with people throughout the world of all ages & special needs. As an award winning percussionist she has led drumming of many public concerts, marches & events. Whether it's keeping the rhythm with her feet or Skin on Skins!! Jan Jeffries says Word is "Don't Break The Rhythm"
1:00 - 4:00pm THE CONCERT (Main Stage - indoors)
1:15 – 1:45pm
Sharon Katz & The Peace Train, featuring drummer Jan Jeffries
The multicultural South African band of Sharon Katz & The Peace Train helped Nelson Mandela to bring South African communities together after the ending of Apartheid, and have continued spreading their message of peace and reconciliation around the world. Their pulsating rhythms, rich harmonies, guitar-driven melodies, spine-tingling dances, funky bass lines, intricate drum patterns, and compelling lyrics tell of the social justice challenges worldwide and how we can change them - while also getting the dance party going!
The group made history in 1992 when they formed South Africa’s first, 500-voice multiracial choir and then organized a courageous tour on board a train –The Peace Train – to promote a peaceful transition to democracy. In July 2016 The Peace Train toured across America to promote respect and an end to hateful, divisive rhetoric when it took 100 diverse singers on tour from New York to New Jersey, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, DC. In July 2018 The Peace Train journeyed from California across the border to Mexico to sing with children's choirs on to protest the the current US administration's border policies on "The Peace Train Transcending Barriers 2018” Tour.
The documentary film about The Peace Train’s music and work, “When Voices Meet,” was selected by 30 film festivals and won Best Documentary, Best Director, Best Original Soundtrack, Audience Award and President’s Award all across America.
Recordings include “Imbizo” on Billboard’s Highly Recommended list and Grammy nomination list for Best World Music Album; “Live in NYC with Pete Seeger;” “Double Take” with Afro-Jazz divas Abigail Kubeka and Dolly Rathebe; “Carnival!” with Sting, Elton John, Tina Turner and Madonna and “Side-By Side” featuring Sharon Katz and Peace Train co-founder, Nonhlanhla Wanda.
Sharon Katz & The Peace Train use proceeds from their appearances for their humanitarian work in under-developed areas of South Africa and around the world including music therapy with orphans and communities affected by HIV/AIDS; feeding programs in impoverished areas; conflict resolution in violence-torn regions; building schools and community arts centers; and promoting social justice.
1:45 – 2:15pm
Kendrah Butler Waters Trio, featuring drummer Sadayah Roberts
Kendrah Butler Waters waters is a composer, pianist, violinist and vocalist whose music is both original and transformative. Kendrah was the 2015-2016 Jazz Artist in Residence with the Kimmel Center and has produced a body of work that focuses on developing a new genre of jazz called “sacred jazz” that merges the genres of jazz, gospel, and traditional hymns. This fellowship opportunity from the Kimmel Center was tremendously helpful in composing a 20 piece work that was widely received to sold out audiences. The sold out "World Premier" of her work was widely received and Kendrah plans to continue to market the work as well as expand the project. Kendrah has performed in countless venues, jazz festivals, and universities both local and around the world. Her music is on recurrent rotation on WRTI Radio, Philly Cam and Comcast stations and works in both the performer, composer, music curator and musical director roles. She is releasing a new album titled, "Faith Walk", due to be released Fall of 2018.
Sadayah N Roberts started playing drums at the tender age of 8 at her grandfather's church. Not knowing where music would take her, Sadayah started to study with Philadelphia's own Craig McIver who taught fundamentals, ability and technique on not only drums but also timpani and marimba. Currently, Music Director at her church, El Bethel Community Church Inc., under the leadership of Bishop Joseph Roberts, Jr, Sadayah continues to give back to God what he has given to her. The Berklee College of Music alumni has played on the bandstand nationally and internationally with greats such as Bootsie Barnes, Mike Boone, Nina Bundy, Ella Gahnt, Rebirth Brass Band, and a host of other great musicians.
2:15 – 2:45pm
TOCO, a taiko-flamenco collaboration
TOCO will perform two pieces, Ichi Go Ichi E 〜 Utsu Hachijo (一期一会 〜 打つ八丈) - by Kumiko Aguero, Tamiko Laincz & Therese Stephen. The piece is inspired by Flamenco bulería rhythms (Spain) and traditional taiko rhythms of Hachijo Island (Japan). The Japanese saying “ichi go, ichi e” translates to “one time, one meeting.” It reminds us to cherish every meeting, because even if the same people gather again, each particular experience will never be repeated, thus every moment is once-in-a-lifetime.
Hanabi (花火) - by Kumiko Aguero, Tamiko Laincz & Cathi Tillman. Hanabi is the Japanese word for fireworks. This piece is centered around a battle between flamenco dance and the odaiko (big drum).
2:45 – 3:15pm
Paulette Branson & Mixed People, featuring drummer Sunny Dee
“Mixed People” is a funky, soul fusion band with hints of rock and world music...or as we like to call it - new age funk. Versatile musicianship, raw lyrics, and full vocal harmonies create a genuine, mixed musical experience. The name Mixed People derived from colors that bloomed out the whole funk and nothing but the funk. It embraces the love of self and others regardless of our differences and celebrates the beauty in us all. Mixed People is a Philadelphia-based band, founded by guitarist, Paulette Branson, in August 2012. Other band members include: Bird Williams (keytar and vocals), Pierre Nix (percussion and vocals),Terrence Jones (bass), Sunny Dee (drums), Kayla Brewer (saxophone), and Jakeya Sanders (vocals). Any given night, you'll also find a collaborative of other distinguished musicians joining them on stage. Since August 2012, the band has stamped its sound in Philadelphia performing at various music venues, from World Cafe Live and The Ardmore Music Hall to Hard Rock Cafe and The Trocadero.
In April 2014, Mixed People released their EP Album, Shark Attack. Shark Attack is a fun, refreshing, guitar-driven masterpiece that has left fans craving for more. The music is progressive, and the energy and emotion behind this band will get you dancing on your feet and singing along. Fans have compared Mixed People to P Funk meets N.E.R.D. or Jimi Hendrix meets Prince.
Dionna "Sunny Dee" Miller is a professional drummer who's known through out the Tri-State area for her "In the pocket" precise sound. Sunny Dee started playing the drums at the mere age of 16 at Rhema Deliverance Center in Philadelphia. Sunny had a strong musical upbringing & grew up listening to gospel music as a child. Sunny would sit in rehearsals with her father who sung in a group named "Unity" they had a drummer name Eric Tribbett. After watching Eric play, she had the urge to get on kit.
Sunny's career has led her to play with some of Philly's top musicians such as Steve Mckie and Killiam Shakespeare, Carvin Haggins and Bria Marie, Alisa Joe and Gyrl Problems. Gyrl Problems (an all female band) was her first major gig, they opened up for the R&B group sensation "SWV" during their reunion tour. Sunny has been blessed with an awesome start for her career. Her main drive is to provide the best lifestyle for her son Dèyon, who is her inspiration. Sunny's main goal is to have her brand go global, and to pave the way for future upcoming female musicians and artists in a predominantly male-based industry. This is the sole reason why she created "The Female Takeover". The Female Takeover was a movement started in 2014, it was a showcase where all female entertainers and musicians could freely share the talent and be equally supported.
3:15 – 4pm
The Branson Family Praise Jam featuring Rev. Paula Y. Branson, with daughters Paulette and LaTreice
Elder Paula Y. Branson is a committed wife to Pastor Jeffrey Branson and mother of 4 lovely daughters. Her drumming is empowered by the love of Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit. She was introduced to drumming by her father Paul Browne, who taught her the U.S. Navy marching cadence at the age five. Thereafter, a variety of toy instruments were collected, played and abandoned but the enthusiasm of the drum overwhelmingly prevailed. Through several years as a child and teenager beating on pots, pans, telephone books and plastic containers with her hands her parents purchased a set of bongos which she played in church with the attire of a dress. Later she received a five- piece drum set, she was convinced that she would be the best female drummer in the world!
Thereafter, as the years would progress she learned rudiments and variety of styles in drumming. After receiving instructions by the Lord to teach her beloved daughters everything she knew about percussion currently they all can hold a precision pocket. Equally important, various opportunities to teach, minister, and conduct a variety of seminars to children and adults throughout Philadelphia and abroad have transpired. Drumming from the heart is her lifestyle. She will be joined by her daughters, Paulette N Branson and LaTreice V Branson, Drum Like a Lady's Founder.
4 pm - 8 pm: Barnes on the Block
Barnes on the Block returns for another round with food trucks, dancing, and a beer garden in our parking lot. We’re mixing things up with DJs King Britt and Rich Medina (outdoors) plus Drum Like a Lady leading a drum cypHER (indoors) featuring DJ Aura( Shawanda Aura Spivey ) and DJ Precolumbian and jam sessions lead by drummers Barbara Duncan, Ashley Ferrante and Erica Mack.
4:00 DJ AURA
Aura (Half Jawn Half Amazing) is a Philly based Dj. She's been providing the musical soundscape for various gatherings, parties, & soirees along the East Coast for several years. As a military brat she travelled the world and explore cultures & developed a passion for music. Her nomadic childhood allowed to see how music unites people & she inevitably fell in love with Dj-ing. When she's not rocking parties & sweating out blow-outs she’s combating patriarchy and empowering youth.
Follow DJ Aura: IG: the_aura_sphere, Twitter: @djaura360, Soundcloud: aura215
5:00 ERICA MACK
A native of Prince Georges County Maryland, Erica McElveen is an all around musician. Affectionately known as E Mack, Erica continues to shock her audiences with her musical versatility. Erica graduated from Temple University in 2012 with a Bachelors Degree in Music Education concentrating in woodwind studies. She is an educator at The Philadelphia Charter School For The Arts and Sciences where she serves as the Arts Department Chair. Although E Mack plays multiple instruments, her first love is certainly the drum set! Her father had faith in her ability to play the drums at just 6 years old. She began playing for her church when she was barely able to reach the foot pedals! It was at Suitland High School in the Visual and Performing Arts Program (VPA) that she blossomed as a musician. Heading the marching band as drum major began shaping her leadership abilities at an early age.
Since graduating from Temple University, E Mack has played alongside some of Philadelphia's finest artists and musicians. She's played with recording artists Angie White and LeeMo and has worked with legendary producers, Paris Bowens and Jamar Jones.
Erica only hopes to continue spreading the love of music as an educator and performer. She recently opened a private event venue, Events at The Loft, located in Philadelphia where she hopes to provide musicians with a creative space to rehearse and perform.
5:30 ASHLEY FERRANTE
Ashley Ferrante has been a music lover her whole life. Some of her earliest musical memories as a child include gathering pots and pans around her house and creating her own drum set with them. She knew from a very early age that all she wanted to do was be a professional drummer. Ashley, now 25 years old, has pursued that passion for music her whole life. She has participated in numerous symphonic bands, wind ensembles, and jazz bands throughout her school career, while exploring songwriting in her own original bands as well. Ashley has previously studied Music Business at Belmont University, but continued her studies at Bucks County Community College where she received her associate degree in Business Administration. Ashley continues to be a passionate musician and is currently a Drum Instructor and Show Director at the School of Rock in Newtown, PA. You can visit the links provided to follow more of her drumming career.
6:00 BARBARA DUNCAN
MuzikalDunk aka “The MD” is a Philadelphia based musician, producer and songwriter. Her sound is a blend of innovative poly-rhythms, and melodies that will take you out to the fringes of modern music, while maintaining a classic musical sensibility that keeps you in the groove. Her flare for cutting edge creativity gives her eclectic and often genre defying tracks and playing an undeniable signature. She's known best for her creative style and power, which often results in a drum kit being reduced to shrapnel and splinters at night's end, much to the delight of the transfixed audience. Or simply get lost in the daze of vibes the music she’s produced will take you. As of late she also teaches and mentor young adults and teens through the art of drumming. She empowers them to be curious and expand their knowledge of self through their Instrument. When she’s not giving back she’s releasing new sound waves of production on all streaming platforms! Get to know this creative phenom on all social platforms as she shares her many gifts and talents!
6:30 DJ PRECOLUMBIAN & THE ORIGINAL DRUM LIKE A LADY DJ/ DRUM cypHER, FEATURING LATREICE V BRANSON AND OTHER SPECIAL GUESTS
Precolumbian is a Philadelphia-based DJ, musician, and cultural creator. She is a co-founder of the QTPOC experimental club night, "Seltzer", and was honored with the 2013 Leeway Transformation Award.
Precolumbian is the inaugural DJ of Drum Like A Lady's nightlife series and will be closing out the anniversary celebration at "Barnes on the Block", on the main stage(indoors) @ 7pm, with a heart-pounding dance celebration that honors the original DLAL DJ/drum cypher!
Food trucks Baby Blues BBQ, The Cow and the Curd, and Innovative Catering Concepts.
Local beers from Dock Street Brewery.
Check out live art by muralist Nathaniel Lee.
The FULL day of events are FREE and OPEN to the public.