The Urban Sound-Drop Arkestra

The Urban Sound-Drop Arkestra teaches children the socio-cultural roots of New Orleans music through the learning and performance of original as well as traditional vocal and percussion ensemble pieces using non-traditional, urban, and found-object instrumentation. By following beats and bell patterns from various cultures in Africa and explaining their migration vis-à-vis the slave trade and their subsequent transformation in the New World, the children of the Arkestra come to understand how the cultural heritage of New Orleans music developed. From the clave to the second line, from the Yoruba to the Fi-Yi-Yi, the Urban Sound-Drop Arkestra enriches the children's appreciation of their own culture by showing where it came from and the similarities it shares with other cultural traditions-- traditions which not only came to fruition in much the same way as our own, but also engaged in collaborative cultural exchanges. In this way, our mission is to promote, preserve, perpetuate and encourage our unique musical heritage by teaching children the roots of our traditions.



By serving children from different neighborhoods, our program helps bridge the divide between the 7th, 8th, and 9th Wards by having kids collaborate on a common goal; and by uncovering the richness of their culture, children gain a greater sense of pride in community. Using found-objects as instruments strengthens creativity, underscores the importance of reusing over trashing everyday items, and proves that money and expensive instruments are not necessary for creative endeavors. Moreover, providing a free, stable environment of learning, love, and support helps reverse a number of negative personal behaviors (ie, violence, inability to focus, apathy, etc) gleaned from the problems our communities struggle with on a daily basis. In doing so this alternative education helps foster an appreication for the value of traditional academic education.Musicians Christopher Nobles and Jesse Morrow comprise the principle staff of the program with input and assistance from generous volunteers and notable local guest instructors, such as the great Bill Summers, who have made significant contributions to the music culture of New Orleans and America. Space for the Urban Sound-Drop Arkestra program generously provided by the Life is Art Foundation.