“With out strong framework the house will collapse’. In this ‘follow along” video/ conga lesson we will begin to explore how to position your hands and also how to make basic sounds on the conga drum. This is part one
            
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This is an amazing audio and notation encyclopedia of every djembe and dun dun part for 50 Rhythms!  |
“Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” – Dr. Seuss Silencing the inner critic. For most of us when we are drumming , practicing and playing we are playing to an imaginary critic. Often this critic is saying, “you are not good enough”. I have learned over the years to simply not pay attention to the critic or whatever negative images or feelings that may come up while playing. Or we can be playing against someone who was at or in a playing situation. [...] Don’t let your ego in the way of making you a great drummer. A great freind and teacher used to tell us before class. “Leave your ego at the door”. When we come together to drum, to learn or to play together it is important we come with respect for each other no matter what level of playing we are at. Everyone can drum and everyone has their own unique beat or inner rhythm. [...] According to the Bamana people in Mali, the name of the djembe comes directly from the saying “Anke dje, anke be” which literally translates to “everyone gather together” and defines the drum’s purpose. In the Bamakan language, “Dje” is the verb for “gather” and “be” translates as “everyone”. A good friend and long time drummer recommends that students play every day. Some people think that means they have to sit around for hours at a time but he say’s even five minutes to connect with your instrument (in this case the djembe drum) makes all the difference in the world. You are building a relationship! Another teacher from long ago, Les Lumley from the group, “Ghetto Mysticism” in Boston say’s, “if you [...] Many drummers new to the art of djembe music think that they must play and participate in a drum circle, jam or dance class as a way to learn to drum. Most experienced players will tell you something different. By going to a djembe session or African dance class and sitting on the side watching you can learn much by listening, observing and even taking musical notes! By sitting outside of the music going [...] By practicing in front of a mirror, you can correct mistakes in posture and form. It also helps you to see where you’re holding tension in your body and you can see if you’re making strange facial expressions (like me – for example in this YouTube video). Also, looking at your image in the mirror stops you from staring down at your hands, which is a common bad habit. |
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Copyright © 2012 Michael Pluznick - All Rights Reserved |
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