Patty Mayeux Blog

The Joy of Djembe Drumming Ensemble has been honored to play at several local events to celebrate Black History Month. Recently, moms and dads brought their kids to a local library to hear our music and learn about the tradition and history of African drumming. What joy to play, to play together and to play for an enthusiastic audience. Our performance was for all to see, above the surface. But there is an understory. The wide and deep foundation behind our music includes every member practicing at home, learning the rhythms and mastering techniques; group practices to workshop songs and work out kinks; our leader’s knowledge of the history as well as each player to formulate playlists; the skill of artisans who carve the drums from worthy trees; and even below all of that, the history of drumming as a source of celebration and communication around the continent of Africa.

            I am grateful to the history, the skill, the tedious and dedicated practicing that made that performance a success. I am happy to think about an understory, the behind-the-scenes and below the seen realities that create beauty and joy and wonder in my world. Think about moments of joy in your life and imagine what lies beneath. Celebrate and recognize the understory. There is always an understory.