Crosspulse Percussion Ensemble

Whether to a hard-bop, Afro-Cuban, or hip-hop beat, children, toddlers and even infants react instinctively and joyously to rhythm. This Family Matinee event is a part concert, part workshop that will explore movement, hand percussion and body music.

Founded in 1980 by percussionist extraordinaire Keith Terry, Crosspulse is a non-profit organization “dedicated to the creation, performance and recording of rhythm-based, intercultural music and dance.” From its inception, the group has been involved with community and arts groups and has presented dance and music throughout the Bay Area and the world.

In addition to live events, Crosspulse has recorded three CDs and a concert video plus two instructional videos. Its shows have involved anywhere from a solo dancer to a massive group of 75.

Artistic Director Terry started the multi-national Crosspulse Percussion Ensemble in 1992. The second of three Crosspulse mission statements spells out the organization and the Percussion Ensemble’s essence, giving families a preview of what to expect this afternoon:

“To develop a curriculum, and teach body music and rhythmic skills, coordination, timing, and ensemble awareness in a variety of educational settings. Body music is that music and dance created via the sound and movement of the body—clapping, slapping, snapping, stepping and vocalizing— and its application to traditional and contemporary rhythms/movement.”

The question and answer period at the end of this one-hour event will give little ones and grownups alike the chance to have their dance, movement, music and global stylistic questions answered by the Percussion Ensemble members.

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