WHO WE ARE
Founded in 1993 by Louisvillian Edward White, the River City Drum Corp
(formerly known as the Parkland Drum Corps, for the Parkland Boys & Girls
Club, which sponsored it) is a group of children and young adults between
the ages of 2 and 18 who have been trained in African drumming techniques
and materials as well as the richness of African culture.
WHAT WE DO
The Drum Corp is far more than just a musical group; it is an organization
that provides its members with a blueprint for success in life. Each young
drummer makes his or her own drum, using materials found in the
environment.
They learn through apprenticeships-not just about African drumming, but also
about the skills needed for personal, academic, and social success. They
are responsible for the Drum Corp's business accounting and scheduling.
After every performance or group outing, each member writes a personal
narrative about his/her experience regarding that particular event.
The Drum Corp is designed for children ages two through eighteen. Family and
community are important parts of the programs cultural philosophy and serve
as the basic support structure for what is accomplished by and through the
children's efforts. Diversity is celebrated within the community,
therefore,children from various ethnic and religious backgrounds are
accepted in the Drum Corp.
The Drum Corp's overall success is ground in the concept that there is
commitment from the participants, their families, and the program volunteers
to function as one unit--a true extended family. The commitment from each
of the three plays a distinct role in the development and nurturing of the
young people.
PRACTICE SESSIONS
Practices are held at the program office location, 3308 Chauncey Avenue,
Louisville. This building served as the former Immaculate Heart of Mary
School. The rehearsals are normally held Tuesday and Thursday evenings from
6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. for the beginners and until 8:00 p.m. for the juniors
and seniors.
The drum year generally convenes regularly during the months of September
through July. The summers are reserved for our annual RCDC family vacation
and/or special drumming projects.
ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT SESSIONS
Supplemental education classes are held on the first and third Saturdays
from 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the program offices.
PROGRAM DUES
The fees are structured to be affordable. You have two options: you may pay
for the entire year or choose to pay four quarterly installments.
$370 - one child
$420 - three or more children or $105 per quarter
DRUM CORP LEADERSHIP
Mr. Ed (Nardie) White - founder, instructor and master drummaker serves as
the group's leader and overall Program Director.
Mrs. Zambia Nkrumah - Director of Education
Mr. Randolph (Bubba) Ellis - Director of Music and Operations Manager
Mr. Jermaine Reeves - Drum Line Director
Brother Kenata - Djembe Instructor
Ms. Anna Allen - Administrative Assistant
Ms. Tomicka Stocker - Fundraising Coordinator
Ms. Tonda Montgomery - Education Coordinator
Ms. Adrianna Thornton-Clark - Education Coordinator
Mr. Lyndel Johnson - Recording Studio Director
Mrs. JoEtta Perkins - Piano Instructor
