Panzumo Entertainment: Reviews

The Unitarian Society’s sanctuary was transformed on Saturday into a multicultural musical playground as African drum and dance ensemble Panzumo, headed by co-directors Budhi Harlow and Lisa Beck, shared the space with musicians on instruments native to the Western musical tradition.

To read the entire review, please click on the link below.

Your concert was unbelievably beautiful. It was all a remarkable putting together of local talent for a kind of universal message - the beauty and warmth of music. But when Budhi said that it was good to see his adherents en masse, it reminded me that I have never said how wonderful his drumming is. From the first hit on the instrument, the audience feels at home in the world. It is amazing that Budhi is a kind of direct conduit to the soul of Africa, and that Lisa has the same propensity. At the first sight of her, we understand what she is talking about - magic, and we love love love love it.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY: With drums, flutes, vocals, and other instruments, the West African-, Cuban-, and Brazilian-themed ensemble Panzumo joins dancer Kristin Hoye for an evening of joyful movement. At a club, we may feel inhibited, but when the yoga studio clears out, the ecstasy can begin —especially since Hoye has a particular talent for leading large groups and inspiring others to dance. Even if you’ve never gotten your groove on before, feel hesitant about entering a yoga studio, or don’t know one drum from another, Hoye and Panzumo are sure to make you feel comfortable.

Your performance was just so wonderful and absolutely what we needed! Thank you so much for coming to "Schmooze Room" and introducing us to your unique and beautiful way of sharing spirit through music.

1/26/08 Panzumo & Kristen Live Musicians

“what an energetic evening!....the musicians were incredible”! Bethina

“I just moved to Ventura from the East Coast and came here to dance. I felt very welcomed, and it feels like home”

“I was able to open up and be vulnerable tonight and express myself like I never have before.” Sara

You gave us the most fantastic evening we’ve ever had—it was so beautiful, moving and inspiring,” Dee

Dance Jam Ventura
www.waywebby.com/dancejam

It was a delight listening to your music and watching you speak/perform/sing/beat. Listened to your entire CD last evening and it was as pure as your live music. Great job with it!

Panzumo and their energy is "Na ka oi"! The chemistry and exchange in their music and heart expands in the heart & soul of many, as it does mine. Thank you for making beautiful music Panzumo and singing, playing song from your hearts and soul!

Lifting Us Higher through Music, Story and Poetry! Thank You Panzumo For the years of inspiration, training and encouragement! I love you you all for that! Beautiful, Your Virtual Environment and Web house is very cozy. I Know I can always stop by and say hello & read the news.

What a gift you have given our community. We are so blessed to be able to experience African Rhythms so cleverly intermingled with classical melodies. Each and every performer is so talented and they bring something so uniquely different to the stage. It's not just a performance, it's about sharing your passion with the community and letting each of us truly be a part of the experience.

Dance Alliance Goes Global for Its Annual
Dance & Music Festival

More than 17 cultural traditions are represented in Santa Barbara Dance Alliance’s 15th Annual International Dance & Music Festival on Saturday, September 12 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Marjorie Luke Theatre, 721 E. Cota St. This family-friendly event features artists performing and teaching traditional music and dance in colorful costumes from around the world including Flamenco, Irish Dance, American Folk Dance, Panzumo from West Africa, Huaracha Salsa, Balkan Dance and many more. Read more here: http://www.sbfamilylife.com/m09sep6p.html

Budhi has so much patience for a teacher. His encouraging attitude keeps you coming back for more. His drumming inspires you to take it to the next level. He definitely brings out the best in his students. His energy lights up a room and its been an honor to study with him.

Love,
Jeanne Tolosko (drummer, world traveler)

Budhi Harlow's offerings of djembe instruction has had a profound effect on how I feel about the culture of music and dance on every level. Not only does Budhi's enthusiasm ring true with his Love for all music and intrigue of several instruments, but his ability to integrate the aspects of each and every culture that he becomes taken with is simply phenomenal. He brings the art of dance and drumming into a light that is rarely felt, heard or seen.
~Asia (masseuse, esthetician, dancer)

Budhi is a force of nature...his command of the drum is a combination of years of study and a natural talent and passion for this music that comes from a soul-deep place. As a teacher, he's unparralled; patience, humor, and ability. I've been studying with him for 7 years, and there's still so much more to come.
-Cindy Anderson (drummer, dancer, yogi)

Because of his indepth knowledge of the West African culture, his skilled musicianship and his passion for the art, Budhi can eloquently shapeshift between being a compassionate teacher, a fierce leader and an exceptional performer. I highly recommend his classes and private sessions to anyone who is interested in learning how to drum. ~Kristen Hoye (dancer, healer, teacher)

"I love druming but you bring it to a higher lever, the energy is awesome. I love your class and Lisa is great."

Budhi is a great teacher and performer, taking world percussion to a new level.

Lisa's natural grace, beauty and rhythm are truly inspiring, and the combination of dance and voice with the thunder of the djun djuns is a truly liberating experience! Those of us who have been working with Lisa have experienced highs that are not experienced in many other formats. She provides a nurturing space for women of all ages and backgrounds to explore the the depths of their sensuality, power, and artistic ability.
I highly, HIGHLY recommend this workshop to women of all levels and abilities. It goes deeper than just the music and dance: It is about community, femininity, and self-discovery.
(Review of Djun Djun Mamas Workshop)

Your beautiful dancing inspires us all, Lisa, to work harder and do better.

Lisa - thank you!
You absolutely rock.
I've fallen in love with you and your dance. I'm honored to have you and the drummers in the space.

Always,
Kate

It is much more than a dance class, it is an experience with authentic live drum music and a community of wonderful inspirational people.

I highly recommend Lisa's classes. She has sweet energy and fire that will keep you going and she is the best collaborator, what dance is all about when you are dancing in an ensemble! Her classes will inspire you to dance with Joy!!!!”
-Vanessa Isaac (dancer, singer, teacher)

Lisa Beck creates and offers such an incredible sanctuary to learn the stories of West African music and dance. This is a wonderful class for any person interested in African dance, whether you are a beginner or have been dancing for years!
-Asia Warren (Masseuse, Esthetician, Healer, Dancer)