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Jan 05
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Mindful Warm-Up Exercises for Drumming

By | Blog

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help students focus and relax using simple hand drumming patterns.

These exercises are suitable for beginners and adaptable to any drum, such as a djembe, frame drum, or even a desk drum for classrooms without instruments.

1. The "Heartbeat Rhythm"
Purpose: Grounding and calming.
Pattern: Play a slow, steady beat like a heartbeat: Base - Base, Rest - Rest.
Steps:
Use the centre of the drum for a deep resonance (Bass sound).
Count: 1, 2, rest, rest. Repeat for 1-2 minutes.
Encourage students to breathe in time with the rhythm.
Visual:
[B] - [B] - [ ] - [ ]

2. The "Breath Sync"
Purpose: Synchronizes drumming with mindful breathing.
Pattern: Tap lightly on the drum while inhaling and make a louder strike while exhaling.
Steps:
Start with light fingertip taps around the drum edge as students inhale.
Make a firm palm strike at the centre as they exhale.
Continue for 5-10 breaths, focusing on the sound and the feeling of air moving.
Visual:
[Tone-Tone-Tone-Tone] → [Base]

students drumming
school workshops

3. The "Circle Wave"
Purpose: Promotes focus and group connection.
Pattern: Each student plays a single beat in a clockwise or counterclockwise circle.
Steps:
Begin with a facilitator or teacher starting the rhythm.
Each student adds their beat in sequence to create a wave effect.
Once all students are in sync, increase the speed or volume slightly to engage focus.
Visual: Represent students in a circle with beats flowing like a ripple.

4. The "Rainfall Rhythm"
Purpose: Encourages light and dynamic control.
Pattern: Random fingertip taps across the drum surface, mimicking gentle rain.
Steps:
Start with soft, scattered taps (like the first raindrops).
Gradually increase intensity and speed, then slow down to simulate a calming drizzle.
Optional: Combine this with soft breathing sounds or whispers.
Visual:
[t-t-t-t-t-t-t-t] [t..t..t..] [t.........]

5. The "Echo Game"
Purpose: Improves listening and mimicry skills.
Pattern: Teacher plays a short, calming pattern (e.g., Base-Tone-Tone) and students echo it.

Steps:
Begin with simple rhythms.
Gradually increase complexity while keeping the pace slow.
Allow students to take turns leading the rhythm.
Visual:
Teacher: [B] - [T] - [T]
Students: [B] - [T] - [T]

6. The "Pulse and Pause"
Purpose: Balances energy and quiet reflection.
Pattern: Four beats followed by two counts of silence.
Steps:
Play: 1, 2, 3, 4, rest, rest.
Use the silence to feel the vibrations of the drum and relax.
Encourage students to focus on the rhythm internally during the pause.
Visual:
[B] - [B] - [B] - [B] - [ ] - [ ]

These exercises are simple yet effective for grounding, calming, and transitioning students into a focused mindset.

kids drumming

Expand your repertoire at our online PD workshops.
Learn new and exciting games, exercises, and melodic content to engage your students!

Discover our online Professional Development workshops
Sep 30
0

The Best Way to Store Your Djembe: Ensuring Longevity and Protection

By | Blog

Owning an African djembe is a commitment to preserving a beautiful and functional instrument that holds cultural significance. Whether you’re a seasoned drummer or a beginner, proper djembe storage and care are key to maintaining your instrument’s sound quality and durability. In this guide, we’ll cover the best practices for drum storage, when to invest in djembe hats or covers, and tips for overall djembe protection.

Proper Drum Storage: Why It Matters
Storing your djembe correctly can prevent damage to the wood and drumhead, especially since many African djembes are made from natural materials that are sensitive to environmental changes. To avoid cracks, warping, or tears in the drumhead, consider the following:

1. Temperature and Humidity

Djembes should ideally be stored in a cool, dry place with stable humidity levels. Extreme temperature changes or high humidity can cause the drumhead to stretch, loosen, or even crack the wood. Ideally, the humidity should be between 40% and 60%.

  • Avoid Direct Sunlight: Constant exposure to direct sunlight can dry out the drumhead and wood, leading to premature wear and damage. Keep your djembe in a shaded or indoor area when not in use.
  • Stable Placement: It’s common to see djembes in West Africa on their sides on the ground when not in use. This allows air to circulate inside the drum to keep it cooler. If your drum is left upright in intense heat the inside body of the drum will heat up and act as an oven for the drum head and timber.
    If the drum is standing upright make sure it is on a flat surface to avoid falling or tipping, which can cause cracks or damage to the body of the drum.
Exlpore djembe bags and covers

2. When to Use Djembe Hats or Covers
Investing in a djembe hat or cover is one of the best ways to protect your drum from dust, moisture, and physical damage, especially if you travel frequently with your drum or store it in a shared space. But when exactly should you buy one?

  • Frequent Transportation: If you often take your djembe to performances, classes, or jams, a padded djembe cover is essential to prevent accidental damage during transport. Look for durable, water-resistant covers to protect against weather elements.
  • Long-Term Storage: If you’re not playing your djembe for an extended period, consider a breathable fabric cover or a djembe hat to keep dust off the drumhead and to shield it from temperature fluctuations.
  • Outdoor Use: For players who enjoy playing their African djembe outdoors, it’s especially important to have a djembe cover to protect it from unexpected weather conditions. Even a brief exposure to rain can weaken the drumhead.

Explore more of our djembe storage products.

3. General Tips for Djembe Protection

  • Clean Regularly: Wipe down your djembe with a dry cloth if it looks to be accumulating oils and dirt from your hands. For the wooden body, a light wood oil polish (we love Danish oil) can be applied occasionally to keep it moisturized and prevent cracking.
Aug 28
0

Discover the Magic of Drumming in Bali: A Unique Retreat Experience

By | Blog

Imagine spending ten days in beautiful Bali, surrounded by lush greenery and the rhythmic sounds of African drums.

That's exactly what participants of our annual Bali Drum Camp experience.
This immersive retreat welcomes drummers of all levels, from complete beginners to advanced players, and brings them together to deepen their understanding of West African drumming.
Below is a personal reflection written by Dianne Motton, one of our recent camp participants, capturing her experience at the Bali Drum Camp:

Bali Drumming

”Most of us remember having a recorder in our early years of primary school.
Sadly, my class was bypassed on this musical instrument, and I still have memories of hearing other classes attempting to play "Three Blind Mice" over and over again.

So, my musical career never really took off, and now I find myself in Bali, listening to the most sublime drumming and wishing I had a modicum of the talent to match what I hear.

The African Drumming camp here in Candidasa, Bali, organized by Simon Fraser, brings together a disparate group of adults from a wide range of backgrounds, all intent on immersing themselves in the world of drumming and complex musical rhythms.

bali retreat
djembe retreat in bali

”There are social workers, students studying gardening, research scientists, and retired lawyers—all drawn here to the challenge and joy of learning how to drum and improve their skills.

They come from all over Australia, from America, New Zealand, and beyond to hone their skills developed at home with the aid of ten days of drumming.
The days are broken up into morning and afternoon sessions, all building upon the work of the previous day.

I hear rhythms that sound both primitive and sophisticated at the same time. I hear a primal beat—a beat that has been handed down for thousands of years across Africa, conveying messages from tribe to tribe—yet at the same time, I hear the sophistication of the arrangements and the layer upon layer of intertwining rhythms that form the entirety.

Join us in Bali

”It is mesmerizing to watch the swift hand movements, to catch the beat over and over again, and to recognize the skill and mastery involved.

Day after day, the groups practice for four hours, coming away at the end of the day both exhilarated and tired.

The new musical challenges each day push the drummers to new heights, to a new awareness of skills and deficiencies. It pushes the drummers to create new neural pathways, to ward off stagnation and decline. It is cognitive therapy with a twist—you become proficient in a musical field that few Australians are familiar with.

The camp also engenders camaraderie amongst the drummers, with time in the evening to chat over a meal, to share their passion for the music, and to compare their learning styles.

There have been amazing spontaneous jamming sessions and organized dancing to African drum beats, with the groups leaping, clapping, and laughing at their sometimes poor dancing skills.
It is great fun and adds to the sense of being alive in this tropical paradise.

Once a year, this coming together of like minds creates something special and unique.
The drummers come away with memories to store away for years to come, a new sense of community, and an increased passion for the rhythms of African drumming.

Learn more about our annual Bali drum camp
djembe drumming in Bali

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience at Bali drum camp

The Bali Drum Camp is more than just a retreat; it’s a unique opportunity to connect with others, deepen your passion for drumming, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Aug 09
0

A Beginner’s Guide to Shamanic Frame Drumming

By | Blog

Getting Started: Essential Tips for New Shamanic Frame Drummers

Shamanic drumming is an ancient practice that connects us to deeper states of consciousness, grounding us in the rhythm of life. The shamanic frame drum, with its powerful and resonant sound, is an ideal instrument for this practice. In this tutorial, we'll explore the basics of playing a shamanic frame drum, including tips on holding the mallet, achieving different rhythms, and creating a variety of sounds.

Getting Started: Holding the Shaman Frame Drum and Mallet

1. Choosing the Right Shaman Drum and Mallet:

  • Frame Drum: Choose a drum that feels comfortable in size and weight.
  • Mallet: A soft-headed mallet is often preferred for shamanic drumming due to its ability to produce a deep, resonant sound.

2. Holding the Shaman Drum:

  • Seated Position: Sit comfortably with your back straight. Hold the drum vertically on your lap or against your chest, using your non-dominant hand to support it from behind. Ensure the drum is stable but not pressed too tightly against your body, allowing it to resonate freely.
shamanic frame drum
Explore our Shaman Drums
ceremonial shaman drum

3. Holding the Mallet:

  • Grip: Hold the mallet loosely in your dominant hand, with your fingers wrapped around the handle and your thumb resting on top. The grip should be firm enough to control the mallet but relaxed enough to allow for fluid movement.

Techniques for Achieving Different Rhythms and Sounds with the Shaman Frame drum

1. Basic Stroke:

  • Playing Surface: Strike the centre of the drumhead with the soft part of the mallet to produce a deep, resonant sound. Experiment with striking different areas of the drumhead (closer to the edge, for instance) to create varied tones.
  • Motion: Use a gentle wrist motion, allowing the mallet to bounce naturally off the drumhead. Avoid using too much arm movement, which can lead to fatigue and less control over the sound.

2. Creating Rhythms:

    • Steady Beat: Start with a simple, steady beat. This foundational rhythm is often used in shamanic journeys. Aim for a tempo of about 180-220 beats per minute, which mimics the natural rhythm of a heartbeat.
Make your own Shamanic Frame Drum
  • Complex Rhythms: Once comfortable with a steady beat, experiment with more complex rhythms.
    Try alternating between softer and louder strokes, incorporating syncopation (off-beat rhythms), or using polyrhythms (multiple rhythms played simultaneously).

3. Exploring Different Sounds:

  • Edge vs. Centre: Striking the centre of the drumhead produces a deep, resonant tone, while striking near the edge creates a higher-pitched, sharper sound.
    Use these variations to add texture and depth to your playing.
  • Frame Drum Hand Techniques: Incorporate hand techniques to diversify your shaman drumming sound palette.
    For example, use your fingers to tap or scrape the drumhead or your non-dominant hand to mute and unmute the frame drum for different effects.
  • If possible, join a drumming circle or community.
    Playing with others can provide inspiration, feedback, and a sense of connection. It’s also a great way to learn new rhythms and techniques.
How to play shamanic frame drum
Shamanic Frame drum guide

Tips for Enhancing Your Shaman Drum Practice

1. Create a Playing Space:

  • Find a quiet, comfortable space for your practice. You may want to eliminate external sounds, change the lighting, or use  ritual objects to create a sacred atmosphere. This helps in creating a conducive environment for deep, meditative drumming.

2. Listen and Feel:

  • Pay attention to how the drum’s vibrations resonate through your body. Allow yourself to get lost in the rhythm and feel the connection between the drumbeats and your breath. This mindfulness can deepen your experience and enhance the meditative quality of your practice.

3. Practice Regularly:

  • Like any musical skill, regular practice is key to improvement. Set aside time each day or week for drumming, and be patient with yourself as you develop your technique.

Playing a shamanic frame drum is a deeply rewarding practice that connects you to ancient rhythms and personal intuition.
By learning the basics of holding the drum and mallet, experimenting with different rhythms and sounds, and enhancing your practice with mindfulness and community, you can unlock the transformative power of shamanic drumming.
Remember, the most important aspect is to enjoy the journey and let the drum guide you.
Happy Drumming!

Choose your Frame Drum
Jul 01
0

By | Blog

How Playing the Djembe Helps Build Emotional Resilience

In today’s fast-paced world, helping children develop emotional resilience is more important than ever. Children today are exposed to less opportunities for facing challenges by themselves, or solving problems unsupervised.
Emotional resilience is the ability to adapt to stress and adversity, bouncing back from challenges with a positive outlook. One powerful and engaging way to build this resilience is through playing the djembe, a traditional African drum, or learning drumming rhythms. Here’s how these rhythmic activities directly contribute to children’s emotional well-being.

Immediate Emotional Release

The physical act of drumming provides an immediate and effective outlet for releasing pent-up emotions. Whether it’s frustration, anger, or anxiety, the vigorous and rhythmic movement involved in drumming allows children to express and process these feelings in a healthy way. This immediate release helps in reducing stress and promoting emotional balance.

Rhythmic Consistency and Grounding

Drumming involves steady, repetitive rhythms that create a sense of grounding and stability. This rhythmic consistency can be particularly soothing for children, helping them feel more centered and secure. The predictable patterns in drumming provide a form of comfort and stability, which is crucial for emotional resilience.

kids djembe gift pack
kids parties

Improved Focus and Presence

Playing the djembe requires children to concentrate on the beat and rhythm, which helps them stay present in the moment. This mindfulness practice diverts their attention from worries and negative thoughts, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of calm. By focusing on the present, children can better manage their emotions and stress.

Building Physical and Emotional Endurance

Drumming can be physically demanding, requiring stamina and persistence. This physical endurance can translate into emotional endurance, teaching children to push through challenges and build resilience. The discipline and perseverance developed through drumming are valuable skills that support emotional strength.

Coordination and Cognitive Engagement

Learning and playing drumming rhythms engage both the brain and the body. This activity improves hand-eye coordination, timing, and cognitive processing. The integrated engagement strengthens neural connections that support emotional regulation and resilience. Drumming thus provides a holistic approach to emotional development.

Social Connection and Support

Group drumming sessions promote social interaction and collaboration. The sense of community and mutual support fostered in these sessions can enhance children’s social skills and provide a network of emotional support. Strong social bonds are essential for resilience, helping children feel connected and supported.

Positive Reinforcement and Self-Esteem

Successfully learning and performing drumming rhythms provide a sense of accomplishment and positive reinforcement. This boosts self-esteem and self-efficacy, which are critical for emotional resilience. When children feel confident in their abilities, they are better equipped to handle adversity and bounce back from challenges.

Expression of Individuality and Creativity

Drumming allows children to express themselves creatively. This creative expression can be therapeutic, providing a way to process and communicate complex emotions in a non-verbal manner. Encouraging individuality through drumming helps children understand and manage their emotions more effectively.

Regulating Breathing and Heart Rate

The act of drumming often coincides with controlled breathing and can influence heart rate. This physiological regulation can have calming effects, reducing symptoms of anxiety and contributing to emotional stability. Drumming thus supports both physical and emotional well-being.

Creating a Sense of Achievement

Mastering a new drumming rhythm or technique gives children a sense of achievement and pride. These positive experiences build their confidence and resilience, showing them that they can overcome challenges and learn new skills. This sense of accomplishment is a powerful motivator for continued growth and emotional strength.

Conclusion

Incorporating djembe playing and drumming rhythms into children’s routines offers numerous direct benefits for their emotional resilience. From immediate emotional release to building confidence and social connections, drumming provides a multifaceted approach to developing emotional strength. By engaging in this rhythmic practice, children can learn to manage their emotions, reduce stress, and build the resilience ne

school drumming
May 14
0

Choosing a djembe

By | Blog

A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing Your Perfect Djembe

Choosing a djembe is not just about picking any old drum off the shelf. It’s about finding that perfect instrument that resonates with you, both in sound and feel. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the intricate world of djembe drum selection.

Height Matters
When it comes to the height of your djembe drum, it’s essential to find one that fits your body comfortably. The standard height range for djembes is between 60cm to 65cm tall. When seated, ensure that the rim of the drum is a couple of inches above your thigh. It shouldn’t be below or level with your leg, nor more than 4 inches above it. This positioning ensures optimal playing posture and comfort.

prmium quality djembes

Skin Deep
The hide or skin of your djembe drum plays a crucial role in its sound and playability. For beginners, we recommend opting for thin or medium skins. Thinner skins are more responsive and easier on the hands, making them ideal for those just starting their djembe journey.

Diameter Dynamics
The diameter of the head is another crucial factor to consider. The standard head size for djembes is 12 inches. However, depending on your hand size and preference, you can look for sizes ranging from 11 inches to 14 inches. Experiment with different diameters to find the one that feels most comfortable and allows you to achieve the desired sound.

Wood Selection
The material of the shell significantly impacts the tone and quality of sound produced by the djembe. Look for drums made from a single piece of timber for optimal resonance. Entry-level drums often use medium-density woods, while premium djembes are crafted from hardwoods by skilled artisans. Hardwood drums offer a wider and richer tonal range, making them a preferred choice for seasoned players and professionals.

Extra Enhancements
Consider additional features that may enhance your playing experience. Some drums feature a Guinean aesthetic style of skinning, where the hide overlaps the rim. While this has no effect on the sound, it adds a unique visual appeal. Additionally, rubber tread is often added to the base of the drum for protection and stability. This acts as a shock absorber and prevents slipping during intense playing sessions.

Personal Preference
Ultimately, the choice of a djembe drum boils down to personal preference. Take the time to try out different drums, feel their weight, hear their sound, and assess their playability. Consider factors such as your skill level, playing style, and budget when making your selection. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, investing in the right djembe drum will elevate your musical journey to new heights.

We’d be happy to help you find your first Djembe – how exciting!
We can send you a video with selected djembes, chosen for you.
Send us your details below, it’s a fast and easy way to hone in on the best drum for you.

ghana djembe

Ghana djembes

Our most popular djembes!
A djembe from its place of birth is truly special! These entry-level drums present remarkable quality at exceptionally competitive prices. Crafted from Twenaboa timber of medium density, they boast substantial bass tones, delivering a rich low-end sound that has garnered widespread acclaim. These djembes, adorned with both traditional and contemporary carvings, offer effortless playability. The Ghana series comes in various sizes, ranging from 10” to 14”. Moreover, they are notably lightweight, ensuring convenient portability.

how to choose a djembe - ghana djembes
Feb 21
0

New Seedpod chimes & Seedpod rattle

By | Blog

The Kenari seed pods hang within a wooden frame, crafting a beautiful chime. Emitting gentle, earthy tones, the Seedpod chime fosters a serene and contemplative ambiance. Swaying gracefully with the wind, it emits calming melodies, ideal for sound therapy, meditation, and unwinding.

Derived from the Canarium tree native to Africa, these seed pods have long held cultural significance.
In African traditions, they symbolize unity, strength, and the interconnectedness of communities.
Our Seedpod Chimes pay homage to this cultural heritage, bringing a touch of African authenticity to your space.

Carefully crafted, each chime is a fusion of artistry, tradition, and the therapeutic power of sound.

Beyond its cultural roots, the chime serves a dual purpose, not only as a decorative element but also as a conduit for sound healing wellness. The gentle, melodic tones produced by the chime create a serene ambiance, fostering relaxation and mindfulness. They provide a therapeutic experience as the soothing vibrations resonate, promoting a sense of calm and balance in your surroundings.

View the Seedpod chime here

We’ve also added the Seedpod Rattle to our instruments range. It produces a cascade of rain-like notes, making it perfect for sound healing and relaxation.

If you’re looking for sound healing, wellness, meditation, or mindfulness instruments, we offer a huge range of sound healing instruments, including singing bowls, gongs, steel tongue drums, bells and more.
View more sound healing instruments here.

seedpod chimes
seedpod chimes
Jan 31
0

Rhythmic Memory Game 🧠

By | Blog

This drumming rhythm game promotes attention and memory skills, whilst also  encouraging adaptability and quick thinking.
It’s an engaging way to challenge students to stay focused and actively participate in a collaborative rhythmic experience.

Read More
Jan 11
2

Mindfulness Listening Game

By | Blog

This drumming game not only promotes mindfulness but also encourages teamwork, communication, and creativity. It provides an opportunity for students to engage in a rhythmic dialogue, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.

Read More
Oct 18
0
drumming wellness

Finding Harmony Within

By | Blog

Finding harmony within can often be a challenge for us.

Along comes the humble djembe, an ancient drum that transcends cultural boundaries, giving us the key to unlocking a powerful
from of self-expression through wellness.

Djembe has the ability to tap into our primal instinct which leads us to a cascade of physical, mental and emotional clarity and balance.

Physical benefits of playing the djembe range from improved cardiovascular health, increasing circulation, improved hand eye
coordination and refining our fine motor skills. Djembe playing is a proven form of stress release, emotional release,
as engaging in rhythmic patterns allows us to enter a meditative state which in turn promotes mindfulness and wellness in the world within and outside of us. You can read more about the benefits of drumming for wellness here.

Rhythmic wellness is available through private events, school and kinder incursions, team bonding days, and an array of events.

Check out our range of djembes available and have a peek at our wellness range also available through our sister-brand Bashiri.

Oct 11
0
Ceremonial Gong

Ceremonial Gongs

By | Blog, Rhythm & Health

In a world filled with everyday symphonies, ceremonial gongs rise above, ready to steal the spotlight with their resounding choral charisma!

Ceremonial gongs, are majestic metal marvels, transcending time and culture, finding their place in rituals, celebrations and meditative practices.

Envisage a shimmering disc suspended in time awaiting the gentle touch of the mallet. With a strike it brightly awakens sending ripples of harmonious vibration through the air. Ceremonial gongs invite our body, mind and spirit to dance with the rhythm of history. While the waves wash over, we are reminded of our playful spirit waiting to be unleashed.

Each ceremonial gong is designed to tune into a specific chakra point on the body, and align the energy while played. Our traditional gongs are hand hammered from a special 5-metal alloy. Different notes are created by striking different points on the gong. The harder a gong is played, the more its surface is activated, resulting in the whole surface loudly resonating with many layers of reverberation.

Some practitioners believe certain frequencies can focus on specific areas of the body, contributing to the healing of certain ailments. If you want to target specific chakras, choose a gong based on its tonal frequencies.

Is there a gong that resonates with you?

Find out here

You can also visit our sister site for more traditional sound healing instruments here! 

Oct 04
0

New Drumming Classes

By | Blog, Classes Slider, Rhythm & Health, Workshops-Slider

New African Drumming Classes

You can join us for new African Drumming classes in-person and Online.

Diversify your skillset and spice up your week with drumming classes. Music connects us in profound ways and is a bridge that links us harmoniously.

A great way to connect your heart and mind, destress, reset and energise yourself!
Drumming class is a great way to socialize and make new friends in a relaxed environment.

🪘Beginners Djembe

🪘Intermediate Djembe

🪘Middle Eastern Percussion

Book here!

african drums