jessie lehmann

Who I'd like to meet:

DRUM CLASSES focus on traditional drumming from Guinea, West Africa. The aim is to build skills in a structured environment with authenticity in mind. We work on technique used to play the instruments and focus on breaking down traditional polyrhythm. Classes can be catered to most any level.

THERAPEUTIC DRUMMING FACILITATION:

These sessions differ from the drum classes because the facilitations use West African drumming as a catalyst to provide a therapeutic rather than skill based experience. Using drumming mixed with the sharing of stories and facilitated discussion I am able to create a safe setting that encourages clients to reflect upon and take responsibility for their lives. Currently I am able to provide four tailored sessions: TEAMBUILDING, TRANSITION, CREATIVITY and PERSPECTIVE. Each session can be tailored to the organization's needs and can be single day events or weekly sessions. These sessions are great for drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers for teens and adults, therapeutic and behavioral programs for at-risk children and teens, already existing groups or organizations that need help with building trust and interpersonal skills among participants and for those with physical and mental disabilities.

CORPORATE DRUMMING FACILITATION:

Studies have shown that companies that build trust and positive relationships between employees are more apt to have increased production, innovation and retention. West African drumming is a great way to provide a unique, interesting experience that by its very nature will provide a framework to focus on trust, interpersonal relationships, teambuilding, personal integrity within a group setting, and cross-cultural understanding.

SCHOOL RESIDENCIES, LECTURE-DEMOS AND WORKSHOPS:

School Residencies are a great way to provide students with an in depth study of African music and culture. I can give week long sessions where I come every day, or do residencies that are only once a week but span over a period of 8 weeks and culminate with a school wide performance. I have taught African music in multiple school settings such as week-long residencies, after-school classes, one-day lecture-demos, and facilitated performance.

PERFORMANCE:

I am available to book performances for a number of settings: West African music with a melodic component, traditional drum and dance, or Brazilian Samba. All of these groups are able to play at schools, festivals, clubs/bars, and special events. I am also available as a freelance musician. ..