Bonnie Devlin  is a musician, composer, recording artist, minister, music therapist, educator, and activist. She has devoted her life to integrating spirituality and the arts for the enrichment and empowerment of people's lives. She is a noted percussionist in the Afro-Caribbean folkloric dance & music traditions, an award winning music designer for off-Broadway theatre, and has been featured on many recordings. Her first solo CD Action of Grace has been released internationally through Lyrichord Discs.  * Bonnie is the only woman ever initiated as a Huntogi (ceremonial drum master) in the Haitian folk religious tradition.

Her teaching is inspiring; her playing invokes spiritual energy. Her workshops at the Happen'ns are informative and rock! :

RHYTHMS OF HAITIAN VODOU Part 1:  Beginner-Intermediate. The ceremonial music of Vodou, the sacred folk religion of Haiti, has been the foundation for both community and revolution in Haiti. In this workshop we will explore the dynamic musical and spiritual dimensions of traditional Haitian rhythms for trance and transformation, as individuals and in community. Bring a conga-style drum, bell, and two drum sticks.

RHYTHMS OF HAITIAN VODOU Part 2:  Intermediate-Advanced. This workshop will go deeper into the rhythms of Vodou, exploring the more complex polyrhythms, elaboration on patterns, and full ensemble playing. All levels of players are welcome to deepen their respective level of learning and drumming.

SOUL OF SAMBA - BRAZILIAN PERCUSSION WORKSHOP:  All levels. Samba is perhaps the most joyous rhythm in the world! In this workshop we will explore different Brazilian percussion instruments, both conga-style (Nigerian roots) and the Bateria instruments in the New World Brazil.