Drumming Education for Future Leaders

Alafia! We, of the New Heights Drum Troupe, have decided to take matters into our own hands and raise money to purchase drums for student instruction after seeking funding with little success. The students you see in the video learned to play this song in about four practices last year. This is traditional West African drumming. They learn the songs, the culture, and the etiquette as taught to me, by my dear teacher Baba Kwame Henry Jones. I have his blessing to teach. These are young ladies of the African diaspora, and all are first generation New Yorkers, from humble and noble beginnings. To imbue them with knowledge of this rich culture is a gift immeasurable. The drums you see them playing on were mostly borrowed last year. They have been hounding me incessantly, as to when we can get back to growing this incredible club. Several said that it is all they thought about over the summer. We hope to expand our club. As many of you know, funding for such things these days, in this economy, is hard to come by. Those of you who know me, know that any funding you contribute will go directly toward the education of the youth. If this is something you feel is worth giving to, we encourage you to donate what you can. No donation is too small. You would be doing a great thing in providing these students, of the greater Harlem/ Washington Heights neighborhoods with an experience that they will take with them for life. Thank you in advance for any generosity.

Yours in Community,

Michael Duff; educator, friend, and servant of a brighter future for all.