What in the world is a Kola Nut?
Definition #1: According to Wikipedia, “The Kola Nut has a bitter flavor and contains caffeine. It is chewed in many West African cultures, individually or in a group setting. It is often used ceremonially, presented to tribal chiefs or presented to guests . . . Kola was used to make cola soft drinks, though today most of these mass-produced beverages use artificial flavourings.”
Definition #2: The Kola Nuts are a funky little group of percussionists from the Salem, Oregon area, who love to create rhythms on hand drums and other toys. Just like the above mentioned kola nuts of West Africa, we most enjoy playing in a group setting, and are always eager to present our rhythms to other guests, friends and the rest of the community!
Who we are . . .
The Kola Nuts world percussion ensemble is comprised of students of a weekly hand drum class taught, in Salem, by Mark Powers. Mark began teaching the classes in November 2006 at Riverfront Wellness (2399 12th St SE), where they still continue on Tuesday evenings. The foundation of a Kola Nuts performance (consisting of ensemble rhythms from around the globe) is made solid by the core members performing on djembes, bell and rattles, while a rotation of additional players brings new percussive textures to each show!
Percussionist/educator Mark Powers has performed and studied drumming throughout the United States, Cuba, Puerto Rico, China, Thailand and Ghana, West Africa. He shares his passion for rhythm through private lessons and his workshops for schools, businesses, correctional institutions and community events. Visit his website at PowersPercussion.com
