Glenbard South to drum up a good time

Got rhythm?

Prove it May 15 at Glenbard South High School when a professional drum circle stops in with more than 100 instruments from around the world and offers an invitation to play along.

They're the prelude to an all-pop music choral concert.

The drummers of Rhythm Revolution will start at 7:15 p.m. and sit in the center of a circle, setting down a rhythmic or tribal beat while calling out to those surrounding them to join in.

Everyone who walks in can choose an instrument -- one of 100 drums from around the world -- of varying sizes.

"Some are big and stationary, some strap on, some are small and can fit in your hand," said Stephanie Skizas, Glenbard South's director of vocal music.

Though the troupe will lay down the beat, periodically switching it up, it's up to the remaining participants to fill in the rest.

"There's nothing you can do wrong. Whatever you do adds to the music," she said.

In addition to the drum circle, the professional troupe will play with students and perform "Baba Yetu," a Swahili song from the video game Civilization IV. Funding for the event was provided by Dennis Clark, whose children graduated from Glenbard South, and the Briar Glen Cultural Committee.

The drum circle should last for about 30 minutes, then the pop concert provided by the chorus will kick in, Skizas explained. They'll include songs from Red Hot Chili Peppers, Kelly Clarkson, Rascal Flatts, "Sweeney Todd," Queen and Styx.

The event starts at 7:15 p.m. in the auditorium, 23W200 Butterfield Road, Glen Ellyn. For information call Skizas at (630) 469-6500, Ext. 4714.