WORLD RHYTHM MAGAZINE 
Article: "Rhythms to Inspire, Rhythms to Heal" 
November/December 2003
By Tommy Ossuna

Usually the press waits until someone has already so-called "made it" before the praise comes forth. In this case, World Rhythm is in the know and desires to bring out the up-and-coming. After speaking with Marla several times I couldn't help but notice that she exudes such a positive energy that I'm sure what she sets out to do as a performer will be mutually satisfying to her clients and audience.

As you will read in the questions that I asked her, she is a musical performer and a teacher. Marla plays drums and flute in African and Middle Eastern styles. Marla expressed her desire to really get her musical carrier off the ground with her full length CD that will be coming out of May 2004. She made it clear to me that she wants to make music her total profession!! Marla also has a drumming and yoga retreat part of her plan. Her intentions are for women to really get in touch with their body, movement, and spirit as one while in a spiritually conducive place and atmosphere. That's why she chose Hawaii, its an obvious place for internal and external interaction with ones self. When I asked her if it was co-ed she said that women really need a place to express them elves without any male and female tension and that's why she chooses to have the retreats be exclusively for women, but hopes to also do them co-ed one day soon.

Additionally, at the time we chatted, Marla was on the way to Womex in Spain. It's a World music conference that allows the new to be known and the veterans to eat and smooze while still trying to connect with new artistry. Mostly, there are artists, distributors and record companies that attend. My personal experience of going to Womex is you need to know people already and people are hesitant to speak to the new which leaves the up and coming very frustrated: the follow up is the key.  After perusing her website and seeing the testimonials from people that are very firm and respected in the drumming community, like what Jon Bergamo and Glen Velez are saying about her combined with an in depth musical knowledge, originality and great spirit, Marla Leigh seems to be one of the emerging forces from Los Angeles. So be on the look out for a women percussionist and flautist that plays world music as a lifestyle!

Question/Answer

World Rhythm: If you could give a message to the people around the globe of how music can heal what would your words be. 

Marla Leigh: I would have to relate this question to my own experience.  I have been a musician my whole life and came to Cal Arts in 1994 to study Jazz Flute.  Unexpectedly, I immediately got seduced by hand drumming.  I find it very therapeutic to drum for hours.  For me, this art of drumming is a deep practice, a great teacher.

WR: It's very positive that your teaching and with all of your great testimonials from leading percussionist. What's your favorite technique while teaching?  What feeling do you get when you really get through to people?

ML: I have been blessed with amazing percussion teachers, such as John Bergamo, Glen Velez, Randy Gloss, Swapan Chahudrhi.  I learned many things from them, including how to teach. I want my students to have fun and at the same time educate them about the incredible world of drumming. 

WR: What is your reason for only working with woman on your retreats? Do you not think men would benefit greatly from getting in touch with their musical as well as much needed emotional side?

ML: During college, I was one of the only women learning drumming. Now, I would like to inspire more women to drum, creating safe atmospheres where they can fully express themselves.  However, I am also interested in organizing co-ed drumming retreats.

WR: You said that you are going to put out a CD. What will make it different then any other CD that's out there?

ML: Writing music is one of my biggest passions. I love the whole process, composing and then hearing the music; its such a rush.  What makes my debut CD unique are three simple things: First, the instrumentation: consisting of ethnic drums, flutes, voice, and strings; Secondly, the musical content: using traditional rhythmic techniques and compositions from South and North Indian music mixed with my own rhythms and melodies; and finally, the pure love that I put into my art.

WR: Do you teach all ages?

Yes, I do teach all ages.