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Respecting Our Instruments
Since we’re discussing the importance of respecting our instruments and educating others about recognizing our drums as valuable musical instruments, equal to any other in terms of value be it their contribution to music, or as a physical musical instrument, I wanted to share my drum hat with you. The other item was my drum… Read More »
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Unity of the drum-it’s not about flash!
Every day at the gym, I find myself on a machine, watching YouTube videos about drumming. It’s incredible to see how much West African and Afro-Cuban drumming styles have evolved over the last 50 years since I first started drumming. The skill and advancements in these styles truly impress me, much like how athletes in… Read More »
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Why are there so many cracked drum shells?
The increase in cracked or repaired djembe drums we see from West Africa can be attributed to several factors: 1. Lack of Proper Drying Time Traditional methods of drying wood involve allowing it to season naturally over several years. However, to meet high demand, some drum makers might be using wood that hasn’t been properly… Read More »
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The Philosophy Of Djembe Accompaniment
The Role of Djembe Players in West African Drumming At the heart of this exploration is the mastery of accompaniment parts. These form the backbone of traditional rhythms, consisting of short grooves and repetitive phrases tailored to position the drummer within the rhythmic arrangement. Playing these parts with intention, commitment, and a high level of… Read More »
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Succeeding as a professional percussionist
Consider the dynamics of a band, which can often mirror that of a family unit. The synergy and chemistry between band members significantly impact a collective’s overall success. This principle emphasizes that developing stage presence and social skills is crucial for musicians aspiring to thrive in an ever-competitive music scene. It’s about creating connections—not just… Read More »
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Martial Arts and Drumming
Exploring the Profound Connection Between Martial Arts and Hand Drumming Fluidity of Movement At the heart of both martial arts and hand drumming lies the importance of movement—specifically, the fluid and graceful execution of physical motions. Practices such as Tai Chi, Qigong, Kung Fu, dance, and yoga teach us how to move our bodies with… Read More »
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The state of djembe and conga drum solos
Calling all percussion students and rhythm enthusiasts! Let’s talk about the state of djembe and conga drum solos that we often come across. Have you noticed a shift away from beautiful grooves and funky beats in favor of flashy techniques and speedy rolls? While I appreciate the technical prowess and speed displayed by these talented… Read More »
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It’s Your Thing
The Profound Relationship Between Music and the Performer At the core of any musical journey lies the essential relationship between a musician and their instrument. This connection isn’t dictated by the opinions or expectations of others, but rather by a personal understanding and expression of sound. Ultimately, what matters most is not what I or… Read More »
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Playing Tips for hand drummers
Embracing Growth Through Collaboration: The Journey of Drumming When you find yourself playing alongside more experienced drummers, it’s natural to feel a tinge of self-doubt or insecurity about your skills. However, I urge you not to let these feelings dissuade you. Instead, view each opportunity to play with others as a chance for growth. Each… Read More »
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Adventures In India Drumming
“It was the best of times and the worst of times.” Who wants to hear a New Year’s Eve adventure story? Gather ’round, my friends, and let me take you back about eight years to an unforgettable night in Goa, India—a night that proved to be not for the faint-hearted! Picture this: a vibrant group… Read More »
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Soloing On hand Drums in jams performances and musical situations
Embrace Your Unique Voice: The Art of Soloing on Drums When it comes to soloing on drums, it’s essential to foster the belief that you don’t have to sound like anyone else. While it’s wonderful to draw inspiration from fellow musicians, every drummer has their own unique voice, and that voice deserves to be heard.… Read More »
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Learning to play drums is like making new friends with someone you dont know
Have you ever found yourself butting heads with someone you just didn’t click with, only to realize later that they became one of your closest friends or even a romantic partner? Not to delve too much into the personal, but learning rhythms and studying drumming can mirror this experience in incredible ways. Think about it:… Read More »
