Journeys of the Drums of the African Diaspora

The first object on display in V&A East museum’s inaugural exhibition, The Music is Black: A British Story exhibition is The Drummer, a bronze sculpture created by renowned Nigerian artist Ben Enwonwu. Its preeminent placement pays tribute to the drum's importance across the African continent: it is more than a musical instrument. It is a tool of communication; a vessel of speech and a means of messaging shaped in its distinction by regional, faith and ethnic cultural practices and contexts. Jazz drummer and composer Moses Boyd will lead an evening of conversation and musical demonstration with guests that will include Zeke Manyika (Orange Juice), Sola Akingbola (Jamiroquai), Jah Bunny and young drumming sensation Nandi Bushell. This event will take place at V&A South Kensington.