Families Gather for Rhythm-Filled Learning at Akron Library Event

AKRON, Ohio — Families and children gathered Saturday, April 4, at the Akron-Summit County Public Library for a drum circle with Trust Drum Circles, an interactive program promoting creativity, cultural awareness, and community connection through hands-on drumming and movement.

The one-hour event drew about 30 participants, from toddlers to adults, in a diverse, family-friendly setting. Girl Scout troops were also invited, and attendees earned a commemorative patch.

Facilitated with The Summit FM, the program featured KSU Professor Olu Manns, KSU, and Historian Koffi Khemet.

During the session, Manns led drumming instruction while Khemet guided call-and-response rhythm games. Trust Drum Circles (TDC) founder Maseh Nchang supported facilitation, helping participants select and play instruments and also participating in drumming.

Community Leaders Attend Event

Among those in attendance was Shammas Malik, Mayor of Akron, reflecting city support for local arts and youth programming.

Nathan Briggs, executive director of the Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA), also attended and said the program stood out for its inclusive design.

In talks with Nchang, Briggs said participants were able to engage in different ways without a single “right” or “wrong” approach, allowing broader participation than similar events he’d observed. The experience prompted a future collaboration between TDC and ASGA, including a June 6 Autism Walk, where Trust Drum Circles will lead a drumming session.

Library Highlights Inclusion and Community Impact

Library staff said the event aligned with its mission to provide inclusive, educational programming.

“Two of our core values at ASCPL are learning and inclusion,” said Eli Millette, Division Manager of Children and Teen Services. “We felt Trust Drum Circles provided space and resources for our community to learn a new skill in a safe and fun way.”

“It was clear from the get-go that everyone in the program was welcome,” Millette said. “The leaders created an environment where everyone had space to express themselves, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.”

The collaboration reflects ongoing efforts to expand access to community-based arts programming.