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Join us for this unique workshop led by visiting professional Honduran drummer Jonathan Alarcón on Wednesday, October 28, 2026 from 6:30-8:00 p.m.ABOUT THE CLASS:
Expand your multicultural awareness in a creative, interactive workshop that explores elements of the rich cultural and musical traditions of Honduras, with a special focus on the Afro-indigenous Garífuna people who populate the northern coast of the country.
This workshop is led by Jonathan Alarcón, a professional Honduran drummer who has studied and performed extensively with Chichimán, a premiere Garífuna drumming master and musician. While not of Garifuna descent, Jonathan has a unique perspective into the cultural traditions of this Afro-indigenous community, with a special emphasis on the important role that music plays in their lives.
Performing on traditional drums handmade by Chichimán while using distinctive drumming techniques, Jonathan brings this cultural heritage to share with you in this rare, interactive learning experience.
- Introduction to the cultural importance of music in Garifuna communities
- Hands-on learning for participants to explore some of the powerful drumming and percussion techniques of the Garífuna culture. This can/will be adjusted to fit the ability level of the participants.
- Participants can expect to play on a variety of hand percussion instruments, including tubanos or other hand drums available.
Cost: $35 per participant
Ages 16+
Register on our website:https://womensdrumcenter.org/events/garifuna-drumming-workshop
We accept digital payment through our website, Venmo or Paypal.
All gender identities welcome to participate in this workshop.
No experience necessary.
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR:
As a drummer, Jonathan is accomplished in a wide range of musical styles, with his first love being jazz. In Honduras he performs and records regularly with several of the top bands in the country playing jazz, cumbia, rock, salsa and traditional music. He is also well-acquainted with the indigenous Garifuna music and its infusion into various musical styles of Honduras.
First in Minneapolis in 2017 for the Nobel Peace Prize Forum held at Augsburg University, Jonathan performed with the Honduran band Cienaños, an influential musical group known for their engaging music and strong call for social and political justice in Honduras.
Since then, Jonathan has developed a strong working relationship with the Languages and Cross-Cultural Studies Department at Augsburg University, where he has met with numerous Spanish-language classes, from beginning to advanced, teaching songs of resistance and sharing his insights into the Honduran and Garifuna cultures, discussing the current political climate where indigenous cultures continue to be persecuted and exploited for their land and their traditions.
In March of 2022 Jonathan presented an interactive drumming workshop for the Augsburg Music Department, receiving very positive student feedback: “I also love that we had Jonathan Alarcón as a guest to teach Garifuna percussion in the oral tradition; this was a VERY cool experience I will never forget.”
GETTING THERE AND ACCESSIBILITY:
Please be prepared to remove your street shoes at the door. You're welcome to bring slippers or non-street shoes to change into upon arrival. We also have a limited supply of clean socks available to borrow. Our no-street shoe policy is designed to protect our new floor for posterity.
Our center is located in the basement of the Dow Building; it is accessed by one flight of stairs. No elevator is available in the industrial building where our studio is located.
Use the door on Hampden. Ring WDC doorbell.
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Event venue
2242 University Ave W, Saint Paul, MN, United States, Minnesota 55114, 2242 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55114-1817, United States
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