Message of the drum presented at book signing Saturday in Carson

Staff Reports

Liz Broscoe signs copies of her book, "Adventures of Durga, Messenger of the Drum," 2-4 p.m. Saturday, at Border's Books, 911 Topsy Lane in Carson City.

Broscoe's interactive story time performance includes a discussion and a demonstration of several drums mentioned in the book. Audience participation is encouraged. The event is recommended for children age 6 and older.

"Adventures of Durga, Messenger of the Drum" is a young readers chapter book about Durga the drummer and Cyrus the flying tiger, whose mission is to deliver the message of the drum to children. The modern-day myth delivers a message of the hopeful human spirit.

In 2009, Minden Elementary School fifth- and sixth-graders participated in a test reading of the book and offered suggestions to help Broscoe formulate her story. Information about the book at www.adventuresofdurga.com

Since 2000, Broscoe has taught West African djembe and dunun, Afro-Cuban conga, and drum set classes at Lake Tahoe Community College. She offers adult classes and workshops, children's educational programs, performances and inspirational presentations through her company, Drumchik Productions. Information, www.drumchik.com

Emphasizing history, cultural awareness, community, and the importance of music curriculum in schools, Broscoe's Java Djembe drum and dance troupe have performed in the Reno, Carson City, Truckee, and Lake Tahoe. Broscoe has been grant-funded by Tahoe Arts Project, Nevada Arts Council, Lake Tahoe Educational Foundation and El Dorado Community Foundation.