Beverly guides students in a hands-on music celebration, blending creativity and global percussion with basic techniques of drumming from Africa and Latin America and percussion colors from around the world. Using the rhythm of words, participants will learn some of the building blocks of music- steady beat, groove, phrasing, call and response, dynamics and improvisation. They will create a rhythm ensemble, building skills of teamwork, listening, creativity and self -expression. Students and teachers will learn about instruments they can make from recycled materials, connecting to the environment, science and math. They will understand music and drumming in relation culture and history and will have a deeper awareness of rhythm and pattern across the curriculum. “Drum Talk” has a cultural arts theme, exploring diversity, creativity and global connections. It can be designed to also integrate a specific, grade-level, curriculum focus: Social Studies – Africa, Latin America, Caribbean, USA & jazz. English Language Arts – drumming with poetry & stories Science of Sound, STEM and Math. Schools will have access to asynchronous videos for prep or follow up,

Artist Background

Beverly Botsford is a cross-cultural percussionist, blending music, movement, and spoken word in solo and ensemble presentations. Embracing drumming traditions of Africa, Cuba, South America and her native North Carolina, Beverly weaves colorful rhythmic tapestries with her infinite array of collected and homemade instruments. Her decades of experience include work with the African American Dance Ensemble, American Dance Festival, as well as sharing passion for rhythm and culture in thousands of school and community residencies, performances and workshops. Beverly has played on three Grammy nominated recordings and brings deep global experience, touring with jazz vocalist, Nnenna Freelon in major venues around the world. The language of music is universal.

Search Criteria

• Program Type: Workshop/Residency
• Discipline: Multi-Disciplinary, Music, STEAM
• Grade Level: Elementary, Middle
• Cultural Context: African, African-American, Caribbean, European, Hispanic, Latinx
• Accepts bookings in Johnston County
• Virtual option available