Stay warm this winter—learn drums! Thursday evenings in Brattleboro, The Loft continues its offerings of African and Caribbean percussion. The classes taught by recent immigrant to the Brattleboro area, Julian Gerstin. If you’ve been interested in exploring the world of African and Caribbean music, these classes could be your entry.
The classes will run in an eight-week session from Thursday, Jan. 18 through March 8. There are two classes each night, and you can sign up for one or both. All instruments are provided, so just bring yourself, your hands, and your curiosity.
Afrocuban Percussion, from 7:00 until 8:30, introduces the joyous rhythms and songs of Cuban rumba, bembe, son, salsa and other styles. These rhythms have influenced jazz and popular music all over the world and are taught on conga, shekere, clave, bells and bongo.
Ewe Drumming, from 8:30 to 10:00, explores music of the Ewe people from southern Ghana. The Ewe play an intensely polyrhythmic, profoundly beautiful style utilizing both hand and stick drumming as well as bells, shakers and backup percussion.
The instructor, Julian Gerstin, has been performing and teaching these traditions for over 30 years. Julian has taught at Wesleyan University, Clark University, and is now an adjunct professor of music at Marlboro College and Keene State. He's a veteran of numerous bands playing everything from afrobeat to salsa, samba to experimental jazz. Julian has studied with masters of Cuban, Ewe, and Brazilian traditions in the U.S. and abroad. For over two years, he lived in Martinique, researching local music and performing with the island’s top folkloric troupes.
The Loft is located at 72 Cotton Mill Hill Road in Brattleboro. To register or for further information, contact Julian directly at jgerstin@colorquilts.com or (802) 387-8505. Classes are limited to a dozen students, so reserving a spot is advisable.