Meet the people of Mojave Drums
Sandra Ainsworth, Instructor, Media Director
Sandra Ainsworth is a creative and experienced maker of beautiful, sonorous drums. A skilled craftsman, she also creates wonderful gourd shekeres. Always inventive, she enjoys the challenge of turning the gourds into unique works of art. Born and raised in the Mojave Desert, Sandra is looking forward to sharing her love and knowledge of the region, in addition to teaching others to make a unique musical instrument.
Darren Carson, facilitator
Robbie Lemarr, Instructor
Raised in the Mojave desert, Robbie Lemarr now makes her home in Idaho, where she paints murals and gives instruction in water colors. A talented and creative artist, Robbie is an enthusiastic drummaker and is looking forward to sharing her experience with our camp goers.
Shannon Lopez, Marketing Director, Instructor
Shannon Lopez is an experienced drum maker and an avid gourd artisan, currently experimenting with the building of other instruments. She is especially interested in learning about the different types of drums used around the world, and is excited to share her drum making experience with others.
Loretta Veach Mojave Drums Founder
Mojave Drums founder and decorative artist Loretta Veach specializes in creating intricately carved and painted gourds. While studying gourd instruments, she was introduced to gourd drum- making by artist/musician Guillermo Martinez. Impressed with the beauty and quality of gourd drums and intrigued with drum lore in general, she decided to find a way to combine the crafting and playing of the drums into one experience anyone could enjoy. The result is Mojave Drums. Loretta sees the camp as a chance for guests to encounter cultural and artistic diversity while having a GREAT time exploring the intriguing cultural phenomenon of drumming!
