Douglas "Val" Serrant

Douglas "Val" Serrant is a very active steel pan/steel drum and traditional African drummer (djembe and ashiko) from the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. A great friend of the late Nigerian percussionist Babatunde Olatunji and culture worker Constance Williams, Serrant believes in being a positive force for change in the community. Serrant frequently performs and teaches about Caribbean music in schools, and along with Giovanni Hidalgo he is also a member of Afrika Heartbeat, founded by Sikiru Adepoju. He is lead drummer for Sistas Wit Style, a California-based dance company. Serrant is also the External Relations Officer for the Parry’s Pan School in Tacarigua, Trinidad. He has recorded with many prominent musicians, including Airto Moreira on “Life After That”, Afrika Heartbeat on “Ijinle Ilu”, Avotcja & Modupue on “Live at Yoshi’s”, and Lindsey Schust on “Live at the VeloStation”.

From Drum To Steeldrum/From Afrika To The Caribbean

This is a very special drum & dance workshop for all the children, especially the child in each of us. The focus will be on the multi-layered Kaiso/Calypso, from the Republic Of Trinidad & Tobago, in the Caribbean. "Kaiso" is the root of Calypso music, derived from the Yoruba "Ko Aye So", which means "To bring mankind/the world Together"! So bring your assorted Drums & Percussion! ALL ages are welcome - be ready to Limbo!!!