Rhythm Sisters
Empowering Women Through Community, Rhythm, and Performance
How We Began
The Rhythm Sisters ensemble grew out of a shared passion for collective music-making among older women in Austin, Texas. Founded by percussionist and music educator Myranda Harris, the ensemble offers women a dedicated space to go deeper into frame drumming technique, build a repertoire of rhythmic knowledge from around the world, and share the joy of rhythm and music-making with the broader community through public performances and outreach.
What started as a small gathering of enthusiastic workshop participants has expanded into a cohesive, supportive music community that celebrates artistic expression, lifelong learning, and performance at every stage of life.
Music-Making as a Human Right
We believe music-making is a fundamental human right that belongs to everyone.
Community & Purpose
Combatting social isolation by providing older women with a warm, non-judgmental space for connection, friendship, and shared accomplishment.
Accessible Excellence
Utilizing vocal recitation techniques rooted in South Indian oral transmission systems to make complex rhythms intuitive and achievable without needing traditional sheet music background.
Service & Leadership
Providing older women opportunities to be active cultural leaders through public performance and outreach visits to long-term care facilities.
Why the Frame Drum?
The frame drum is one of the world's most ancient and ubiquitous instruments, found in nearly every music culture across the globe. A few examples include the kanjira of South India, the bodhran of Ireland, the pandiero of Brazil, and the bendir of North Africa. Along with rhythmic recitation, it's the perfect tool for experiential music learning in a hands-on, ensemble setting.
Joining the Ensemble
Rhythm Sisters is designed for older adult women who seek an ongoing, supportive music-making community with performance goals. No prior music training or experience is required, but members must possess a dedication to learning, regular attendance, and a desire to perform in public settings.
To ensure all ensemble members share a foundational understanding of our methodology, prospective members must complete an introductory rhythmic course provided by the instructor prior to participating in weekly rehearsals and public presentations.
Provide your details in the form below to receive information about joining the ensemble.