Don't Worry Child

Linda Thomas Jones, Fasi, is an African American, Yoruba Priestess, female drummer.  My first introduction to the electric sound of her drums was at a teen stop center called Short Stop.  As soon as I witnessed her style and passion for the music, I knew I wanted to play African drums and different forms of percussion.  I contacted her and that began a 7-year journey of learning to play, and it became my passion as well, for this fantastic art form. Along with many private lessons one on one, she taught me to be a confident strong djembe player.  I developed a strong commitment toward continued learning and traveled many places to attend her workshops.   I appreciate her clear and structured way of presenting the rhythms.  She tells stories and gives short phrases to help one remember the rhythms.  She is very adamant about the technique, she corrects the student's posture, so one exudes energy as one plays, benefiting you and everyone within hearing.  As an educator, this teacher tells the history of the drum, so you began to understand the struggles, and greatness of the people that these drums come from.  She has a wonderful understanding of the music, lifestyle and traditions that make up the culture.  She has a gifted ability of bringing community together thru the music, both young and old.  We have been friends for many years, I am so glad I was drawn and guided to her by my ancestors.  I am grateful for the opportunity many years ago of being in a professional drum group, Iya Ilu (mothers of the drum) with Linda, where she was the founder and creative director of the group. I learned a lot. This educator cares about her students and wants them to love the drumming experience as she does and gives that excellence thru the way she guides and mentors.