Tales of Bells and Drums will be presented from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 4, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland. Submitted photo

Tales of Bells and Drums will be presented from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 4, at Merrill Auditorium in Portland.

Musicians, singers, and drummers from West Africa (Guinea), and East Africa (Rwanda and Burundi) will perform, telling stories of their lives through dancing and drumming.

New Moon Ensemble members dance Guinea style and share a love for the music and dance of Guinea, West Africa – the accompanying traditions and the gift of intercultural exchange. Representing and embracing diverse ethnicities, building community, and inspiring international study as well as collaboration through the healing power of music and dance.

Tales of Bells & Drums is organized by Ikirenga cy’Intore and in collaboration with Batimbo United and New Moon Ensemble. Ikirenga cy’Intore is a non-profit organization in Maine that portrays the beauty of Rwandan Culture through traditional music. Batimbo United is a group of artists from Burundi who perform traditional drums and dances. Located in Portland, the group has members all around the United States.