Martin Ross takes his steel drum to Albert Schweitzer Elementary to illustrate the development of African music during Black History Month. Photo courtesy of Martin Ross

CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Musician and community activist Martin Ross marked Black History Month (February) with a presentation detailing the evolution of Black percussion at Carmichael’s Albert Schweitzer Elementary School.

Hauling his steel drums to the class of teacher Suzanne Anderson, Ross (55) faced fourth- to sixth-graders. His tutorial demonstrated African polyrhythm and its eventual collision with European music.

“The kids and I were able to conclude that sometimes, out of difficult circumstances, beautiful things arise,” Ross said. “They danced, they played instruments and we all had fun. We agreed that sharing love is the best way forward for everyone.”

Ross, a former Salvation Army pastor who uses music and sports to reach children, was recently listed among the 20 “Top Black Changemakers” for Sacramento.

He first heard steel drums while studying at University of California, Berkeley.

“The musicians told me what their instruments were," Ross said.  "I loved the joyous sound. Next semester, I joined them.” 

In the Salvation Army, Ross got 10,000 hours of steel drum practice while collecting outside stores at Christmas.

“Music’s done so much good in my life and career,” Ross said. “I’ve used it in tutoring, particularly with kids from underserved areas. The steel drum's festive sound crosses many cultures. When I’m playing, I feel I’m connecting with everyone.” 

Martin Ross’ presentation traces the blending of African and European music. Photo by Susan Skinner

Ross is now an executive for the nonprofit Health Education Council. He sits on the Carmichael Park District board; chairs Sacramento County’s Equal Employment Opportunity Advisory Committee and is a Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency commissioner. The six-foot-plus taekwondo black belt teaches martial arts to youth and has coached basketball, track and race-walking. 

His Schweitzer School workshop was presented by the Carmichael Kiwanis’ K-Kids group and club Treasurer Wayne Lang, as part of Black History Month programs.

Ross also told students about his uncle, Warner Freeman, who helped the integration of high schools with the historic “Little Rock 9” effort during the 1950s.

“Uncle Warner is a proud part of my family and an inspiration,” Ross said. “Like me, he was a musician. He played classical guitar and sometimes jammed with Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. He also taught martial arts. He knew all along that he wanted to teach.”

“The arts and sports create a sense of belonging for some kids who don’t do so well academically,” Ross continued. “Both are additional motivations for kids to stay in school and graduate.”

Contact Ross at [email protected] for more information.