Convergence: 40 drummers assembled on one stage to honor those who helped
to save the city from the flood waters of the Willamette River.

Convergence was written, organized, and directed by Bobby Torres.

Bobby Torres directing Convergence on stage with 40 drummers.

Coming soon . . . a short video clip of Convergence.


About the Project
Bobby Torres organized and inspired 40 drummers to come together as ONE to perform Convergence, a compilation of African and Latin rhythms, to serve as a musical tribute to honor and thank the joint efforts of the rescue and relief agencies and the citizen volunteers who protected Portland residents and businesses from the flood waters of the Willamette River. Bobby gathered the musicians to perform as ONE in celebration of their joint efforts. Bobby told the crowd, "The people of Portland have an enduring spirit. An over abundance of common decency. As musicians we all know where ONE is. When we know where ONE is, we can all play together as a community. As a community, when you have one idea that you all share - you can all make music."

Drummers from all over the city participated in this event. The 40 drummers were comprised of 30 professional musicians (drummers and percussionists who perform and teach in the community), and 10 student drummers from Bobby's own conga drum class. Their music could be heard over 4 city blocks. By the end of the performance the crowd grew to over 500 people.

Bobby and the musicians thank the emergency relief personnel from the American Red Cross, the Portland Salvation Army, the Water Bureau, Portland Fire & Rescue Teams, the Portland Police Bureau, and other civil service employees and citizen volunteers. The performance took place in 1997 at Governor Tom Mc Call Waterfront Park in downtown Portland. This park and miles of buildings, homes, and other parks on both sides of the river would have been flooded had it not been for their efforts.

Depending on interest, Bobby may produce a DVD of this event. If you would be interested in ordering a DVD, or wish to participate in another Convergence Project, please call Bobby at
(503) 224-9314. Or, send an email to Bobby by clicking here.