African Drumming Classes

Community Classes | Cycle Start Dates | Which Level Am I?
Performance Skills Class | Jams

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Community Classes

The djembe (pronounced jem-bay) is an instrument just about anyone can learn. The learning curve is different to other instruments - it's easy to pick up but difficult to master! Classes run in 6 week cycles and it's best to start at the beginning of a cycle. After 6 weeks you'll be a part of your classes ensemble with the chance to perform at Tribalism, our student performance night We recomend checking out our Student Handbook We have classes at beginners, intermediate and advanced levels as well as a performance skills class. See the guide below to find the right class for you

Our Locations St Kilda Camberwell East Bentleigh Flemington Mornington Peninsula Download the class timetable

Rates 6 Week Cycle*.......... $145 / $130 (concession) Casual........................ $26 / $23 casual

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Cycle start dates for 2013
(Weeks beginning)

January 14th May 20th September 23rd

February 25th July 1st November 4th

April 8th August 12th

Want to see the result of the classes? Check out Tribalism: an awesome night of drum and dance at the end of every cycle, giving students the
chance to strut their stuff. All welcome!

Which Level is Right for Me?

Beginners

Suitable for: those with no or limited experience in hand drumming

What to Expect

The emphasis at a Beginner Level is on:

• having fun
• learning basic technique on the djembe (bass, tone and slap)
• developing groove, control & listening skills
• learning to work together to create simple (and great sounding) rhythms
• developing an appreciation of traditional West African music
• learning simple group solos and developing individual freestyle solos
• developing an understanding of rhythm through musical concepts and the all-important pulse

FAQ: When can I move on to Intermediates?
Have a chat with your teacher to get an gauge where you're at. We're always keen to see students progress to the next level! Some students, particularly if they have a musical background, are ready after 2 or 3 cycles. Most students find the confidence to progress after 4 or 5 cycles.

FAQ: I'm a kit drummer - can I skip the beginners class?
Your experience will hold you in good stead, but hand drumming is a different kettle of fish. You'll need to take a least one beginners course to get yourself up to speed and comfortable with the djembe

Intermediate

Suitable for: those who have completed at least one Beginner Course or those with some previous hand drumming experience

What to Expect

The emphasis at an Intermediate level is on:

• developing clearly differentiated tones and slaps
• developing the ability to play at faster tempos
• deeper understanding the relationships between bell, dunun and djembe
• playing rhythms in different time signatures like 4/4 and 6/8
• preparing full arrangements for performance
• building on more difficult group solos and personal freestyle soloing
• maintaining a solid tempo and holding accompaniment parts within poly rhythmic structures

Our Advice
Students at this level should seriously consider investing in their own djembe. More intensive practice is needed beyond class to hold your own at the Intermediate level, and is essential if you're looking for an invitation to the Advanced Class.

 

Advanced - Invitation Only

Suitable only for: experienced and on-going students. This level is not for the faint hearted!

What to Expect

The emphasis at Advanced level is on:

• becoming adept with complex traditional African rhythms
• performing in challenging time signatures
• learning complex group & individual solos
• learning to lead an ensemble by taking the lead djembe role
• preparing for gigs at local venues / festivals etc.

Performance Skills Class

Want to take your playing to the next level? Our Performance Skills Class is focused on polishing a core set of rhythms to a performance standard. You will need to know your way around the djembe (i.e. Intermediate + level), and admission is via invitation and expression of interest.

Classes don't follow the standard blueprint - during our sessions, we refresh, refine and reinvigorate the known content, work on new material and use other music techniques to grow your playing.

The experience isn't restricted to the studio - you'll be given the chance to perform at community gigs and events, as part of our performance troupe Sessi Sessi!

Class Focus

1. Tightening arrangements
2. Learning rhythms inside and out (complete with 3 Accompaniments, Duns, Intro, Break, Outro & Song)
3. Working on music dynamics and interactive movement sequences to add to the visual spectacle
4. Opportunities to practice leading the music through calls, echauffs etc.

Benefits from PSC

1. Improved Live Performing Skills
2. More endurance / stamina
3. Broader knowledge of accompaniments / dun parts
4. Improving musicianship and leading the music
   
   

Cost: $25 session, or $15 if it's your 2nd class with our school at any location

Location: African Drumming HQ: 252 St Kilda Road, St Kilda

Contact: Jeremy on: jeremy@africandrumming.com.au ... or... 0423 521 682

 

Jams

Want to groove out and let loose? Join our weekly jam sessions! Tap into your creativity and explore your own sound in a friendly community environment. All levels are welcome. When Every Saturday from 5pm - 6pm Where African Drumming Studios 252 St Kilda Rd St Kilda Rate $5 entry - drum hire is free!

*Please note: No refunds on 6 week courses