The percussion group Inanna. From left, Annegret Baier (holding a shekere, used in Brazilian cultures); Shirsten Lundblad (with a Tar frame-drum); and Tori Morrill surrounded by Djembes (African hand drums) and a tambourine between the two drums. Wendy Walsh photo

Inanna, Sisters in Rhythm, plan to fill Broad Bay Congregational Church with the sounds of African drums and chanting in a concert for all ages at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25, at 941 Main St. in Waldoboro.

The percussion and vocal ensemble play and share instruments such as djembes (West African goblet drums) and bass drums such as kenkeni, sangba and doundounba (different sized bass drums).  They also plan to play and sing African tunes using the ukelele, a tar and tamborine (frame drums), and a caxixi (a shaker instrument from Africa and South America, similar to maracas).  Audience participation in clapping to the rhythms and singing, by children and adults alike, is encouraged for many songs.

As member Tori Morrill said, “Sharing the joy of music is our focus. The rhythms, the singing, and the stories teach us about different cultures and traditions.  They remind us that we are a global community,” according to a news release from the church.

Inanna was formed almost 30 years ago by students who had been in drum class in Alna.  They named their group after the ancient Sumerian goddess of love, war and fertility.  “In some myths, Inanna brought drums to her people.  And in ancient art, you’ll see images of women drumming, even on Babylonian and Egyptian friezes and murals,” said Morrill.

Members have studied in the United States and abroad with such master drummers as Famoudou Konate (one of the greatest djembe player in the world), Babatunde Olatunji (known as the father of African drumming in the U.S.), Yaya Diallo (author of ‘The Healing Drum’ and musician from Mali), Layne Redmond (a master frame drum artist and author of “When Drummers Were Women, A Spiritual History of Rhythm”), and Glen Velez (a four-time Grammy winning American percussionist) and many others.

Inanna performs all over the United States, in concert halls to community fairs.  In addition, they give classes and workshops.  The group has recorded seven full-length albums.

This concert is free to the community with donations welcomed.

For more information visit inannasistersinrhythm.com.