More than 100 performers gathered in Gowanus on Friday for the start of the 2015 American Beatbox Championship.

Beatboxing is a form of vocal percussion mimicking drums with one's mouth.

Men, women and children of all ages are competing at the Littlefield Stage in Gowanus. Competitors performed a variety of beats, including reggae, hip-hop and dubstep.

Current female beatbox world champion Kaila Mullady says the event provides beatboxers an opportunity to learn something new about the art and help other performers.

"It gives a chance to hear new sounds, hear what others are working on and to support and encourage each other," Mullady says.

The event continues through the weekend, ending on Sunday.