Berlin, MD, March 17, 2026 — Berlin Intermediate School (BIS) proudly welcomes internationally recognized Ugandan artist Ssuuna this week for an exciting African Drumming and Dancing residency experience with sixth grade students.
On Monday, Ssuuna performed for all sixth grade students, launching a week of immersive cultural learning. Throughout this week, he will visit each sixth grade literacy class, engaging students in hands-on drumming, movement, and storytelling workshops that explore the rich musical and dance traditions of Uganda and regions across Africa. The literacy and music/dance connection will reinforce concepts such as storytelling as text, call-and-response language development, vocabulary, sequencing and procedural thinking and expressive communication.
Through rhythm, call-and-response, traditional dance, and personal storytelling, students will experience the power of music as a universal connector. The residency promotes creativity, cultural literacy, collaboration, and active engagement—while reinforcing the Maryland Fine Arts Standards through experiential, standards-aligned instruction.
“This residency allows our students to learn beyond the textbook,” said Berlin Intermediate Principal Amy Gallagher. BIS Art Teacher Sarah Perdue also explains, “Students actively participating in global music traditions allows them to deepen their understanding of culture, rhythm, expression, and community.”
The program is funded through a grant, written by Perdue, from the Maryland State Arts Council, whose continued support helps bring high-quality arts experiences directly into Maryland schools.
