Barbara Borden: Keeper of the Beat

Barbara Borden: Keeper of the Beat is a documentary on the life and music of Barbara Borden, an acclaimed and pioneering Bay Area drummer, composer and teacher. It tells her inspiring life-story in eloquent words and toe-tapping music. Filmed on four continents, it was produced and directed by three-time Emmy-Award winner, David L. Brown. Keeper of the Beat weaves footage from She Dares to Drum, Borden's autobiographical "percussion play" and other dynamic performances from the last four decades with interviews of noted artists, students, family and friends who know her and the social history of her times. The musicians featured in live performance include Cris Williamson, Sweet Honey in the Rock, and Linda Tillery. The film tells the story of a woman whose love of drumming and music gave her courage, inspiration, and the drive to find connectedness within a widening circle of communities throughout the world. We watch the unfolding of Borden's identity as she grows from a determined little girl in love with drumming to a pioneering woman drummer, a world-class percussionist and a world musician. Archival and original footage shows her career in performance, her leadership in drumming circles and peace and reconciliation projects, her teaching methods to bring drumming into all areas of life, and her exploration into the deeper cultural and ceremonial dimensions of drumming. David L. Brown is a San Francisco documentary filmmaker who has produced, written and directed over 80 productions and 17 broadcast documentaries on a variety of issues and topics His documentaries have received over 85 international awards, include three Emmy Awards, and have been broadcast on PBS and in 16 countries. He has been deeply inspired by Borden's talent, generosity, indomitable spirit and the genuine, infectious joy she finds in music and community. Brown believes she will be an inspirational role model for every young musician - and music lover - who sees this documentary.