The BIRDS Rhythm Festival 1995.
The Baltimore International Rhythm and Drumming Society (BIRDS) hosted an annual Rhythm Festival held at St. Johns church in Charles Village. The festival made rhythm accessible through workshops, performances, an open-air market, kids activities, and an all day drum circle. It was an event that brought communities together to recognize and celebrate the power of rhythm to connect. The Festival hosted many amazing, internationally renowned musicians and dancers throughout the years, such as Glen Velez, Orlando Cotto, Ubaka Hill and Tony Vacca. The 1997 Festival featured the legendary Babatunde Olatunje, seen in the photo to the left with John Millen (BIRDS founder).
Menes Yahudah and Turner connected and partnered in 2014 to revive the festival under its current name, the Baltimore Rhythm Festival. Providing continuity with BIRDS is Rory Turner, who serves in the core leadership team of the BRF, and John Millen, who has been an active advisor and supporter.
GREENMOUNT WEST
Greenmount West in North Baltimore is the residential section of Baltimore’s Station North Arts and Entertainment District. The rapidly revitalizing neighborhood draws many young artists and commuters to renovated row-homes, artist housing and apartments. From checking out the latest art gallery exhibit to new music venues or restaurants, residents enjoy no shortage of things to do. [LIVE Baltimore]
Greenmount West is within walking distance to MICA; Penn Station is directly south, providing walking-distance access to Amtrak, Light Rail and MARC commuter rail service. Historic Greenmount Cemetery, is the final resting place of many famous and infamous Maryland and Baltimore figures (Enoch Pratt, John Wilkes Booth). The neighborhood was the early high school Baltimore home of the now deceased rapper Tupac Shakur.
As part of the Station North Arts and Entertainment District, Greenmount West is also within walking distance of the commercial district on Charles Street. This area includes attractions such as the Charles Theatre, a popular art house multiplex, The Station North Arts Cafe Gallery,
and more.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The festival kicks off at noon with a heartfelt blessing and prayer, marking the start of an exciting afternoon filled with diverse activities.
You can expect two stages showcasing a blend of local, national, and international talent, alongside engaging workshops catering to both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts. The atmosphere is lively, with open mic sessions, children's activities, and vibrant drum jams that are truly one-of-a-kind.
Feel free to bring your drum along; we provide a convenient Drum check space for our guests' instruments!
For the little ones, our children's area offers craft activities and musical play opportunities. Meanwhile, our vendors present a tempting array of soul-nourishing food options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. Additionally, you'll find an assortment of unique crafts, art pieces, clothing, jewelry, and musical instruments available for purchase.
THE DIRECTORS
Driven by rhythm and community.
Past Events
