Queendom Drum Circle

This quarter, we decided to do something different + fun for our QUEENDOM meeting. We thought it would be amazing to experience something unique together after having the chance to get to know one another a bit more. We will gather with as many “Queens” that feel called to join and then Helen Bond will come to facilitate a community drumming.

If you haven’t ever experienced a drumming like this, it is indescribable and is quite empowering!!!

WHERE: The Social Loft Event & Loft in The Glen

2011 Tower Drive, Glenview

DATE: Thursday, February 8th, 2024

TIME: 6:30pm

Dress comfortably. All instruments will be provided. (if you have a drum or percussion instrument that you love – Bring it!)

HOSTED BY: Deanna, Owner of The Social Loft

COORDINATED BY: Drs. Cari, Abby and Susan Baker

About Queendom

Women network by creating relationships with other women/people versus just getting a business card. Queendom gives this opportunity for a more personalized ‘networking’ experience. The group grows with personal invitations by other Queens who want to share awesome with other awesome people. We gather 3-4 times per year in different locations with different women hosting, enjoy snacks, connection and the growing community.

About Helen Bond

Helen Bond is a dynamic percussionist, teacher and storyteller who engages diverse audiences and students of all ages through the joy, energy and healing power of traditional West African hand drumming and songs.

Her workshops provide a unique and energizing opportunity to experience the joy and power of community drumming. Helen’s accessible and patient teaching style allows students of all ages and abilities – from complete novices to experienced players – to progress steadily in skill and experience and grasp the complex and intricate melodies and polyrhythms of West African music. She also offers workshops focusing on non-traditional original compositions that awaken innate creativity and provide a channel for introspective journey. Participants in these exciting community drum experiences feel refreshed, revitalized and rejuvenated through encountering the primal rhythms of life.

Helen is the recipient of the 2015 Jack Benny Arts and Humanities Award. In January 2016, she received recognition and certification for her drumming and teaching from the Institute Superierur Des Arts De Guinee (The Fine Arts Institute of Guinea). Music has been an inspiration and source of strength and resiliency for Helen since her childhood. Since 2001, Helen has traveled annually to Guinea, West Africa to study the intricate musical traditions and culture of the Malinke and Susu people, whose ancestors created the Djembe and Dunun drums centuries ago. She lives among the local people in the capital city of Conakry and in various villages in the Hamana Region of Guinea. Helen has developed and deepened her skill and repertoire in the traditional rhythms and songs and her understanding of their role in village life.