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Troy CSD - Rhythms of the Diaspora

Interactive School Assemblies, Workshops & Residencies

Engage students through live drumming, dance, storytelling, and cultural arts experiences rooted in West African and Afro-Caribbean traditions.

✅ BOCES Aid Eligible

✅ Serving Schools Across New York State

✅ Now Booking Fall 2026 Programs

Request a Quote

If you are inquiring about a private event or smaller gathering, please email directly at contact@jordantaylorhill.com

Programs are designed for schools, universities, museums, and cultural institutions., 

Quotes provided after submit. BOCES Arts-in-Ed (Co-Ser 411). All drums provided.

Carroll Hill Testimony

Now Booking Fall 2026

  • Assemblies

  • Family engagement events

  • Hispanic Heritage Month

  • Arts-in-Education programs

  • Residencies

JTH Songs Born of Tradition

The Egg

Albany Symphony Orchestra

Music Haven Concert Series

 New York State Museum

 Opalka Gallery

Troy Savings Bank Music Hall

 50+ schools & colleges served 

150+ shows  & workshops  

Self-contained/curriculum aligned

Services

Interactive drum and dance assemblies designed for schools, universities, and cultural institutions.

Programs introduce students to Afro-diasporic music, rhythm, and storytelling through live performance and hands-on participation.

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45-60 Minute Interactive School Assembly

Trusted by schools across New York including Albany City Schools, Troy CSD, and Schenectady City Schools

Troy CSD Residency

Live performances & Workshops

Presented in schools, universities, and cultural institutions such as NYS Museum, Albany Symphony Orchestra, Opalka Gallery, and The Egg

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Private Classes & Events

Fully self-contained program (all drums provided)

Programs are designed for schools, universities, museums, and cultural institutions. For private or smaller events, please email contact@jordantaylorhill.com.

Typical Pricing(BOCES Aid-Eligible)

 Assemblies: from $3,000

· Two for one (two 45-55 minute presentations [back to back]) 60-90 minutes

·  Drums provided (Troy Savings Bank Music Hall Sponsored)
Workshops: half-day/full day  (ensemble/solo)
Residencies: quote by scope (multi-day; curriculum-aligned)

About

Led by Jordan Taylor Hill — multidisciplinary artist and educator — Rhythms of the Diaspora connects students to Africa and the Caribbean through drumming, dance, and storytelling that build confidence, focus, and cultural awareness.

Jordan has studied in Guinea (West Africa) and with Conjunto Folklórico Nacional de Cuba, and has been featured on PBS A House for the Arts.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much class time does this take? A standard assembly runs 45 -55 minutes. Workshops slot into PE or music blocks, and residencies can be tailored from one day to a full week. Will it be too loud for nearby classrooms? We cap volume at ≈85 dB (pep‑band level) and schedule sessions in gyms, cafeterias, or auditoriums. No surprise noise during testing windows. What space and gear do you need? 20 × 20 ft clear floor, two tables, one outlet. I bring all drums, mics, and a PA if your venue lacks one. How many students can participate at once? Up to 20 per session on drums; unlimited for audience clap‑and‑move segments. Larger groups rotate through stations or book multiple blocks. Is this aligned with NY Learning Standards? Yes—NYS Arts Anchor Standards 1‑4 plus SEL “Relationship Skills.” Listed under BOCES Arts‑in‑Ed Co‑Ser 411, so districts earn aid on the fee. What does it cost—and is it aid‑eligible? Solo assemblies start at $1,500; multi‑day residencies at $4,500 (prices don't include the BOCES 15 % coordination fee and are aid‑eligible). Are students just watching or actually drumming? They’re drumming, moving, and singing—every session ends with a drum circle/dance session. How do we book? Click “Book a 15‑min Planning Call” or fill out the Quote Form; you’ll get a date hold. *Insurance certificate on request

Most programs are BOCES-funded and can be scheduled within weeks.

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