In recognition of African-American History Month in February, Fort Bend County Libraries’ Sienna Branch Library will present a special musical performance of “African Hand-Drumming." Guests will enjoy the traditional tribal rhythms and spiritual gifts of West African djembe drumming in a special performance by Gregg “Jebada” Powell, founder and director of the Joy of Djembe Drumming Ensemble.

Powell will talk about the history of the instrument and the culture of the people who originally produced it. He will perform a variety of rhythms to demonstrate the influences of different countries and traditions. Thought to have been created by the Mandé people during the Malian Empire approximately 400 to 800 years ago, the djembe drum is a rope-tuned skin-covered drum played with bare hands. The goblet-shaped body of the djembe drum is carved of a single piece of African hardwood and its drumhead is made of untreated rawhide, most commonly made from goatskin.

The Joy of Djembe Drumming Ensemble is a group of Houston musicians who share the joy of music, particularly that of West African djembe drumming.