Category: Advice & Tips
-
What is the Difference Between Conga Drums and Djembe Drums ?
What is the Difference Between Conga Drums and Djembe Drums? A Brief History First, let’s take a brief look at the history of the conga drum. Originating in Cuba, conga drums were initially fashioned from old reclaimed oak wood wine barrels and featured tack heads. Over time, metal tensioners (lugs with metal side plates attached… Read More »
-
Rhythms of Expression: Finding Your Voice in Djembe Soloing
We’ve spent some time chatting about the various styles and types of hand drumming across different countries—traditional, folkloric, village, and city styles—and also about drum circles and open jam sessions. If you’re interested in learning more about each of these styles, I invite you to check out the articles already here on my website, where… Read More »
-
Embracing Traditional Folkloric Drumming: A Guide for Hand Drummers
Embracing Traditional Folkloric Drumming: A Guide for Hand Drummers As a new hand drummer diving into the world of traditional and folkloric music, you may be seeking guidance on how to play in an ensemble, jam with others, or even take a djembe solo. If that resonates with you, I’d like to share some valuable… Read More »
-
Does Magic Happen At Drum Circles?
Over the years, I’ve come across many posts—most recently from someone I’ve never met in person but with whom I’ve established an online rapport, sharing ideas and perspectives. These posts often discuss experiences at drum circles, where everyone seems to come together to create a single heartbeat, a moment of unity that feels profoundly spiritual.… Read More »
-
Where am I?
Where are you? Understanding and feeling the basic pulse or heartbeat of a rhythm is crucial for both drummers and dancers because it provides the structure and foundation for all rhythmic patterns that are played. You need to know where you are in any rhythm or musical situation you are in. Where does the rhythm… Read More »
-
Is it the drum or drummer?
Is it the drum or the drummer, the carpenter or the hammer? You know the old debate. It’s like asking whether it’s the ballplayer or the bat. There are two sides to this discussion, with no definitive right or wrong in my opinion. From my experiences, I’ve seen incredible drummers produce amazing sounds on what… Read More »
-
Its all about simplicity
I once had the chance to catch a remarkable performance in Providence, Rhode Island, where a solo percussionist played an entire outdoor gig for a jazz trio using nothing but a triangle. This experience shifted my perspective on percussion in ways I hadn’t anticipated. It served as a powerful reminder that it’s not the quantity… Read More »
-
why do people call percussion instruments toys?
The perception of percussion instruments as “toys” is a perplexing topic deserving thorough examination. There are several angles to consider. To begin with, while it is true that you can produce sound immediately by striking a drum or shaking a tambourine, that should not overshadow the fact that mastering percussion requires just as much knowledge… Read More »
-
The Significance and Characteristics of Traditional Drumming Across Cultures
The Power of Traditional and Folkloric Drumming Traditional and folkloric drumming is more than just musical expression; it is a powerful cultural phenomenon that transcends mere entertainment. In West African societies—including Guinea, Mali, Senegal, the Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Nigeria—drumming serves as a historical narrative, an art form, and a communal bond that resonates from… Read More »
-
The Drumbeat of Tradition: Bridging the Gap Between Individual Expression and Cultural Respect in Hand Drumming
In the evolving landscape of hand drumming, we find ourselves at an exciting crossroads filled with opportunities for growth and notable challenges. As more individuals become drawn to drumming—whether through vibrant drum circles, energetic music festivals, or informal gatherings—the importance of understanding and respecting the root traditions of hand drumming has become increasingly clear. Engaging… Read More »
-
Exploring the World of Percussion Instruments Beyond the Djembe
**Exploring the World of Percussion Instruments Beyond the Djembe** I love djembe, congas, dunun, bongo, and shekere as much as the next person, but did you know there is an entire world of percussion instruments out there? There is absolutely no reason every person needs to play a djembe, especially as a super cranked-up solo… Read More »
-
Cultivating Connection Through Drumming: The Art of Listening and Supporting
Cultivating Connection Through Drumming: The Art of Listening and Supporting Drumming transcends mere noise-making; at its core, it is about connection—both with ourselves and with each other. Music is more than a concept; it is a shared experience that allows us to express our innermost feelings and thoughts. While it’s vital to recognize the individuality… Read More »