11 October 2006
GAOLHOUSE ROCKS TO THE SOUND OF DRUMS
Internationally renowned Brazilian pianist Marcelo Bratke hosted a cross-community percussion workshop today in Crumlin Road Gaol.
Twenty school children, from North Belfast, came together at the event, which was organised by the Department for Social Development (DSD), in partnership with Laganside and local community organisation, Drumbase.
Funded by DSD, Drumbase teaches young people about the drumming traditions of both sides of the community. The children performed with the bodhran and Lambeg Drum, alongside Marcelo and members of the Brazilian percussion group, Gupo Charanga.
Minister for Social Development David Hanson MP said: "I would like to thank Marcelo Bratke and Laganside for helping to make this event possible. The workshop provides a wonderful opportunity for young people to come together to learn and experience the unusual combination of a classically trained pianist, the rhythms of Brazilian culture and the drumming traditions of both communities in Northern Ireland."
NOTES TO EDITORS:
1. Marcelo Bratke is in Belfast to perform at Laganside's Community "Carnaval" celebratory concert at the Waterfront Hall on Wednesday 11 October 2006. This event is in recognition of their achievements in reshaping the Belfast riverside and to coincide with the INTA 30 World Urban Development Congress.
2. The following schools are taking part in the percussion workshop:
Boys Model
Dominican College
Girls Model
Our Lady of Mercy
St Gabriels
St Malachy's College
St Patricks
Mount Gilbert3. Media queries to Nicola Steele, DSD Information Office, Tel: 028 9082 9078
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