Durga: A Drum Story

Your perspective of drumming will be forever changed!

“DURGA’S DRUM STORY” is a unique and acclaimed performance using multi-media to entertain

and inspire as you learn about the rich and fascinating history of drumming.

Marching to the beat of her own drum, Liz Broscoe, drummer, teacher and author, created

this original production showcasing film, narration and performance. Liz, AKA

Drumchik is perhaps one of the most diverse percussive talents on finger, hand

and stick drums.

“DURGA’S DRUM STORY” is refreshing and joyful. You will learn, laugh and be delighted as

you rediscover the importance of community and understand THE DRUMS powerful

ability to unite ALL people. As a special treat for audiences at the Brewery

Arts Center, Liz and her company will have highlighted sections of the

performances that will include 26 outstanding youth performers from the Carson

City community, trained by Liz and her staff.

“DURGA and the STORY of the DRUM” is a multi-media “DRUMAGANZA.”This unique show will inspire, captivate and teach you the rich history of universal connection that no other instrument conveys more powerfully than THE DRUM. Showcasing film, narration and performance, DURGA celebrates community, unity and life…because life is rhythm. Marching to the beat of her own drum, Liz Broscoe, drummer, teacher and author, created this original production. Featured in the show: Liz, AKA Drumchik is perhaps one of the most diverse percussive talents around. Few can match her skill level on finger, hand and stick drums while delivering passionate, entertaining and dynamic performances. Honoring influences from around the globe, DURGA and the STORY of the DRUM, speaks gracefully, yet powerfully to the importance of connection between all people while delivering meaningful entertainment. Follow the ethereal, narrative voice of DURGA and her earthly sister, Liz Broscoe, on a magical rhythmic journey from ancient times through modern day. Your perspective of drumming and drums will be forever changed.”

“With astonishing musicianship, Liz Broscoe leads us through the history, mythology, and continuing evolution of drums, drummers and drumming.”

- Sue Klemp, Director, UNR Theater

“Amazing, entertaining, educational, well-written and funny.”

- Tahoe Daily Tribune

“Liz Broscoe is an extremely talented artist who delivers an inspiring interpretation of ancient drumming.”

- Tahoe Arts Project

“Durga invites us to join in and become an active member of the human race.”

- Claudia Bertolone-Smith, Teacher, Minden Elementary School]

Children’s Educational Programs

South Lake Tahoe B&G Club kids perform in DURGA – The Story of the Drum at the Valhalla Boathouse.

Using the West African Djembe Drum, kids learn basic fundamental techniques and skills on the djembe while being introduced to West African rhythms and African history and culture relating to the rhythms and their original meaning and purpose.

Small performances are usually scheduled after a sequence of instruction. These performances are typically partnered with a local non-profit agency. The goal is always to emphasize “performance with purpose,” conveying the importance of giving back to community.

“Liz is an amazing, energetic and extremely talented artist. Her programs offer education, exciting entertainment and remarkable diversity for all ages”.

- Peggy Thompson, Executive Director, Tahoe Arts Project

Video Links

B&G Performance at Valhalla http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOJ4ImtbJoo&list=UUWQEMq51kGUPT0_WugsgPZg&index=8&feature=plcp

B&G club drumming rehearsal

A Hero’s Drumming Journey

- A writer’s workshop for 5th & 6th graders –

Using her children’s book, Adventures of Durga, Messenger of the Drum, Liz connects the heroic journey of Durga, a modern day good-will super hero, with Joseph Campbell’s model of “The Hero’s Journey.”

A typical 1.5 hour workshop presents

A walk through Liz’s writing experience

A creative writing and drawing exercise for the students

Sharing time

Question and Answer period

Student rhythmic participation while Liz explains and performs on several different types of drums related to her story.

“Ms. Broscoe’s presentation is relevant to the pre-teen on many levels. She addresses the journey of a hero, the writing process of a new author, and the courage it takes to follow your dreams. Liz weaves magic with her drumming, storytelling and by leading the students through valid writing exercises. Our sixth graders loved her presentation.”

- Claudia Bertolone-Smith, Teacher, Minden Elementary School

“Liz Broscoe’s presentation to our 11-12 year old students reinforced the concept of Campbell’s Hero’s Journey. She spoke honestly and passionately about the writing process and her inspirations. Our students had many opportunities to connect to her work and be inspired. Liz Broscoe and Durga are both on a Hero’s Journey. They are unlikely characters doing important things.”

- Marlene Moyer, Teacher, Minden Elementary School

DRUMS, RHYTHM & CULTURE

(Outreach Artist in Residency)

In a classroom setting, Liz can present one to four different 30 minute rhythmic lessons. Each lesson introduces a new culture and drum while giving further understanding of rhythm and pulse. Language skills relating syllables to rhythm, and note values correlating rhythmic subdivisions of beat to mathematics are emphasized. A class size of 20 students is recommended, allowing for individual participation on the instruments.

“Miss Liz did a fabulous job! My students and I learned so much more than just beating the drums. I would love to see the Drums, Rhythm & Culture program continue throughout all our schools.”

- Stacy Hembree, kindergarten teacher, Lake Tahoe Environmental Science Magnet School

“I like learning that every culture has beat, rhythm, and drums.”

- Student, Minden Elementary Schoo

Book Information

Adventures of Durga, Messenger of the Drum

Story by Liz Broscoe

A children’s book

Delivering messages of hopeful human spirit, this modern day myth takes you on the adventures of a playful, insightful drummer named Durga and her faithful flying tiger Cyrus.

Using the drum as a vehicle, Durga teaches six culturally diverse children from around the globe how to overcome adversity and reconnect with family and community.

Follow Durga and Cyrus on an entertaining and educational journey of the drum as they forge a new world rhythm-traveling the world to change the world.

Community Drum circles

Providing good leadership and direction, Liz can facilitate a drum circle of all levels and experience. The goal is always to provide a fun, supportive environment while creating rhythmic synergy.

Photos:

June El Dorado Beach Drum Circle Community Drum Circle: Liz & Marc