By Rebecca Danvers

Somerville-based Art of Black Dance & Music, Inc., (ABDM) turns 40 this year. De Ama Battle, Director and Master Artist, met several times with Deborah Mason, Director of the Deborah Mason School of Dance to introduce West African Dance styles in her summer dance intensive.

The school, located at 614 Somerville Avenue, Somerville, begins its summer dance intensive on July 6 and ends August 7.

On July 10 at 2:00 p.m., the drums will sound and dancers from age 7–15 will be on the floor getting in sync with the music.

This Master Class was funded in part by $400 grant from the Somerville Arts Council, a local agency supported in part by the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

The energy and discovery of new movements and rhythms will inspire the young dancers, opening the door to a world of culture.

To Register for the Master Class – Contact De Ama Battle at: ABDM, phone: 617-642-1870 or by email: deamabattle@gmail.com.

Information and registration for the Summer Dance Intensive can be found at www.deborahmasonschoolofdance.com. Phone: 617-616-5124.