Rhythm and drumming are the backbone of percussion music, each rhythm has a relationship with each other
Build rhythm repertoire to increase confidence
Imagine every rhythm within the drum circle or percussion music is important to the song. Understanding how and why these rhythms fit together, just like a jigsaw to create picture - a song, is vital knowledge for any music teacher, drum student or classroom teacher.
Percussion music at times can sound so complex, with its wonderful and inspirational dialog rhythms between drums and percussion instruments, yet in many cases what lays underneath are simple rhythms that connect with each other beautifully – just like a dance.
As you can see from the video in Positive Music blog I play the African go-go bell or the Gankogui from Ghana. The benefit of learning cultural music we experience how to play and learn a variety of world percussion instruments.
On a rhythmic adventure of creation
The more I studied percussion music and world music from master drum teachers such as African drumming and batucada (Brazilian percussion music), I begun to understand the importance of each rhythm and how to play percussion instruments, how they fit together and the role that each rhythm and instrument played with the music. I loved learning drumming music!
I found learning cultural music had been a wonderful introductory to percussion music. It gave me a wonderful rhythmical foundation. I feel so grateful to have had those wonderful opportunities to study with amazing master drummers.
As my knowledge, timing and drum technique grew, I wanted to explore my own creativity within this exciting rhythm hemisphere. I vital element for any musician, is to explore what makes them unique. (Thank you to master drummer David Jones who taught me this).
I was on a mission to find me! However, it didn’t come easy at first. It had taken me years to gain the confidence to explore what makes me unique – I thought I wasn’t good enough to create my own music. Well, I’m happy to say that, that thought is long gone!!
Learning drum circle facilitation had given me the opportunity to experience human rhythms or in the moment music making with others. It taught me to let go of it needs to be like this or like that! Let go of controlling the rhythm. This was a revelation for me at the time and I couldn’t get enough of just playing and not thinking. Just letting go was and is a wonderful way for creating music process.
I began to compose my own music and not base it on any traditional music but the music that comes from within me. Though I have a wonderful rhythmical foundation, I began to explore rhythms within me. I have composed many drum student play-along material to help students and teachers’ musicality, timing and knowledge.
I believe more music we have in schools and community the more harmony this creates in these community. Music is a great metaphor for life, relationships, teamwork, mindfulness, wellbeing, and lots more. My passion is bringing more to community through Positive Music teacher training in this area.
New student resources to empower rhythmical expression
I’m currently composing new drum material for students, classroom and music teachers, either for personal growth or teach others percussion ensemble music. I’m in my recording studio creating ensemble music and video recording room to put together online teaching resources and workshops. You’ll be able to learn all percussion rhythms to River Red Gum classroom percussion song. Plus, a wonderful range of bonuses. Please keep an eye out!
Learn the Hart of Drum Circle Facilitation and help build stronger communities through the power of group drumming and music-making
Would you like to learn how to bring people of all ages together, connecting and building a sense of community through rhythm and music-making? For more information on Positive Music teacher trainings, please contact me today.
Have you found this post helpful?
If you found this post helpful, please help support my blog and music-making by purchasing from the store, student resource or sheet music. Or leave a comment in the comment box below, so others can find this post helpful. Every bit helps.
A little gift for you as you continue to build your djembe drumming skills
I want to help you out as much as I can so I’ve added some great hand drum beats for beginners and ensemble drums that accompany the djembe, called 7 Easy Steps to Develop Rhythm, Technique, Timing and Feel PDF. It’s filled with lots of tips on technique and how to improve your timing and feel, to really take your playing to the next level.
This is my gift to you and something that can accompany you on your drumming journey.
Get your instant copy for absolutely free!! Price $15 - FREE today!!
Download your FREE Djembe Drumming PDF Now
Thanks so much for your love and support, it means a lot and inspires me to continue helping people like you.