Mystic Open Studio invites everyone to experience the pulse of community through a celebration of rhythm! Dive into the dynamic world of West African-inspired beats as drummers and students showcase polyrhythms on traditional Djembe drums, then jump into a vibrant freeform jam where anyone can join. A variety of loaner drums, shakers, bells, and hand percussion instruments will be available. All skill levels are welcome to join in the music and play along in a joyful rhythm circle.

Alan Tauber is a gifted percussionist, musician, facilitator and educator who has spent over 40 years sharing his passion for drumming and healing with the worldwide community. In 1990 he established DrumConnection, New England's largest hand drumming school located near Boston in Arlington, Massachusetts.

His drumming career got its start when he asked for drum lessons at the age of 4 years. Since then, Alan has been the drummer for a long list of New England bands, orchestras, etc. He has performed at venues across the US, Canada and the World for over 55 years!

Alan has taught West African, American, Haitian, and Cuban percussion to hundreds of thousands of students. Over the years Alan has specialized in the West African music of the Djembe and Doundoun (dunu) drums, studying and performing with Master Drummers such as Mamady Keita, Ibrahima Camara, M'Bemba Bangoura, Babatunde Olatunji, Nansady Keita, Billy Konaté, Solo Keita, Mamady WADABA Kourouma, Bolokada Condé, Koungbanan Conde and countless others.

Audrey Diallo brings her expertise as a drum circle facilitator, drawing upon years of immersion in the rich musical traditions of Guinea, Mali, and Senegal, West Africa. Guided by the wisdom of legendary djembe masters and steeped in the time-honored teachings of the griots, Audrey creates inclusive spaces for rhythm and connection. She leads weekly classes, dynamic workshops, and therapeutic drum circles throughout Greater Boston, inspiring participants to discover the transformative power of collective drumming.

Marina Strauss is a visual artist from Argentina, an expressive arts therapist and a drumming student. She is a believer that the arts can be healing and help build resilience and community."