PROTEST PERCUSSION

Protest Percussion empowers learners to engage with protest marches and percussion in a bold and liberatory manner. Students are encouraged to share what inspires them to march in resistance while also gaining an understanding of various global injustices and their commonalities across cultures. Participants will:
  • Prepare to engage in safe protest protocol
  • Become familiar with key musical vocabulary such as match grip technique, call and response, marking time, marching technique
  • Explore rhythm and creativity as sources of agency and tools for resisting oppression
  • Explore traditional protest songs and rhythms as well as build upon existing protest repertoire through improvisation
The course will culminate with a final performance of original protest music composed by the group during our class-wide convening event.

NOTE: For this course, drums and percussion instruments will be provided on site. Learners  may also bring their  own instruments or rent to practice at home. Prior musical experience is encouraged, but not required.
THIS CLASS IS AVAILABLE IN PERSON
​AT ABRONS ARTS CENTER:
466 Grand Street, NY, NY

WEDNESDAYS 6-8 PM
OCTOBER 15 - November 5 , 2025
4 sessions +
culminating share out on Wednesday, Nov 12th
Sliding scale tuition: 
$45, $120, $220, ​or $320
+ $30 non-refundable registration fee

INSTRUCTORS

Azeb M. Freitas (she/her) has worked in the marching arts for several years as a Cymbal Instructor and Visual Team Designer supporting the production process and teaching the foundations of marching, percussion, and performance technique. Her creative work centers the Black-American experience and prioritizes holding space to heal through grief in community.

Jordan W. Carter (he/drum) has been teaching percussion for ten years with over fifteen years of professional performance experience. Since founding Harlem Percussion Academy, he has presented drum residencies and workshops across New York City, including P.S. 76, Manhattanville Community Center, P.S./I.S. 161, and more.
Image credit: Nafisah Crumity
This program is supported through a Cultural Development Fund grant from the New York Department of Cultural Affairs.
Our classes are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.