Story Ark Podcast w/ Thompson & Wilson

A wonderful discussion with Eileen Morgan, Sensei.   This gifted, Educator, Craftsperson and Musician opens the joy of Taiko drumming to all of Phoenix, Arizona.  Our conversation covers her beginning on the classic flute to her journey to becoming Executive and Artistic Director of Fushico Daiko, since 2011.

“Ayo Sharpe Mouzon— African dancer, educator, poet, artist—is a shining light, a burst of joyous creativity brightening the world via the arts. Her journey from Arkansas to a star in performance and education is a tale of accomplishment, purpose and breaking barriers. Listen in! Yay, Ayo!”

“Sit in on a glimpse into the amazing journey of Baba Jubal, renowned Ohio drum-maker and folk teacher: five-hour drives to Chicago to learn from masters; ashiko drum lore; the famous Chief Bey; sliding through Harlem and Bed-Stuy Brooklyn in 1970; drum apprenticeship in D.C.; stranded Nigerian artist/entrepreneurs; more.”

"Súle started a menteeship with Baile McKnight, founder of Baile’s African Drum Works, back in 1976, and they’re still at it! Deep talking, y’all! Baile, whose apprenticeship system was mimicked by the MD State Arts Council, shares insights gained in over fifty years of work as a folklorist, drummaker, and community member in North Carolina, Kentucky, Yorubaland, and the D.C. area. How can one live an integrated life? How does one walk in integrity? Where are we going?"

Join Frank in a joyful reflection with superstar Smooth Jazz trumpeter and multi instrumentalist, CTK (Clarence Thomas Kyle). Two Naval Housing kids from Linda Vista—San Diego, both bitten by music’s bug, sit down to discuss success, CTK—playing with the greats, and the old neighborhood. Pull up a chair!

An in-depth discussion of India's famed tabla drums with master player/instructor, Shreyas Iyar.  A fun conversational walk through understanding tabla drums' cultural context and the challenges of playing them.  Mr. Iyar graciously provides deep insights into the history and majesty of this wonderful instrument and the techniques and skills required to play it.

Listen in and discover the compelling artistry and backstory of Michael Taylor, Director of The Tam Tam Mandingue Djembe Academy: Chicago. Taylor is a talented and dedicated artist, instructor, and facilitator, who has studied with masters of djembe and dunun in Africa and America. Our conversation explores his musical roots and influences, as well as the joys of being a musician, scholar and teacher.

Part Two of a stimulating dialogue with Ahmad Daniels, author of From Queens to Quantico:  A U. S. Marine’s Story. The conversation between Daniels and Thompson touches on race and being a U.S. Serviceman during the Vietnam era. After being awed by Mr. Daniels informative and reflective presentation at a Veteran’s event, Frank had to get him on the Ark. Give a listen.

Part One of a stimulating dialogue with Ahmad Daniels, author of From Queens to Quantico:  A U. S. Marine’s Story. The conversation between Daniels and Thompson touches on race and being a U.S. Serviceman during the Vietnam era. After being awed by Mr. Daniels informative and reflective presentation at a Veteran’s event, Frank had to get him on the Ark. Give a listen.

Get to know world traveler, visual artist, facilitator, trainer, and performer Jeni Swerdlow, Founder of the Bay Area's Drummm Rhythmic Events.  Jeni has been facilitating team building and wellness through rhythm for over 20 years.  When it comes to the art of drum circle facilitation and spreading the joy of community music making, Jeni is among the best of the best.  She is world class is every way; hear her share her story with Súle.