OGADE is an evolving community of percussion enthusiasts. While the group has been more involved with West African rhythms, they also have fun with rhythms from Cuba, Brazil, Haiti and other places around the world. As of late, Middle Eastern belly dancing rhythms have found their way into the group's repertoire. The rhythms are practiced to gain a level of competence but the group also lets go and does free-style jamming when the spirit strikes and there's not a pressing need to rehearse for an imminent gig. Among the instruments that are incorporated into the weekly sessions are the djembe, doumbek, dun dun, various flutes, shekeres, gourdonium, gourd trumpets, balaphon, mbira and tambourines.

The members include drummers with extensive training from world-class performers, but also the complete novice is welcome to join. OGADE's goals are to learn world rhythms to perform for various functions that they have been invited to, and to have fun tapping into that insistent and addictive beat that they hear in their heads.

Membership is open to all interested persons in Oxford and the surrounding area. If you would like to participate in the group, come to Pete's Drum Barn every Monday this semester at 7:30. Plan to stay about two hours. That's when practice is held. The practice day has been moved to other days in the past to accommodate schedules for the semester. In the summer, the practice schedule lightens up a bit, so write to Pete, or give him a call at 513-523-8614, or contact Larry to make sure practice is on.