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