From Drum Circles to Diaspora: A Cultural Celebration at the NYS Museum

On February 19, 2025, I had the honor of leading a powerful and uplifting event at the New York State Museum in Albany, NY, sponsored by the incredible team at Troy Music Hall. It was more than just a performance—it was a deep, soul-centered cultural exchange through music and dance from across the African diaspora.

Families, students, and museum-goers gathered to experience rhythms rooted in West Africa, Cuba, and Brazil—brought to life through a blend of traditional instrumentation, interactive drumming, movement, and my own original compositions. The energy was palpable, the drums were thundering, and the room felt alive with ancestral memory and modern creativity.

This wasn’t just an interactive drumming and dance event. It was a journey. A space to feel, move, and reconnect. We sang. We danced. We played. We remembered where this all comes from. And we shared what’s possible when we bring these traditions forward into new stories and stages.

With support from Troy Music Hall, we were able to bring out a full setup of hand drums, allowing participants of all ages to experience the healing power of rhythm firsthand. This event was also a launch of sorts for our initiative Rhythms of the Motherland, which highlights the cultural links and ongoing evolution of diasporic music across the globe.

Whether you’re an educator, event planner, cultural organization, or school leader—if you're looking to bring the spirit of the diaspora to your community, let’s make it happen.