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.
This drumming game is a fun way to engage your students and promote collaboration.It requires active listening and teamwork. Plus, it always sparks a few laughs.
We have been working hard on our 12/8 bell patterns in the St Kilda Advanced class recently and it’s really coming together!
Using our feet to feel the 6 pulse and playing 5 different bell patterns over the top, then combining them all musically; there is something different about a polyrhythmic Agogo Bell orchestra!
One of the key foundation points is being able to feel the offbeat in our body whilst we walk the downbeat (pulse.) Harder than it sounds but over time our bodies relax into it, and two distinct pulses can be felt internally. Counting 1+2+3+4+5+6+ will help, and going SLOW to start is paramount. If we can feel these contrasting rhythms internally then we are much closer to being able to use them in our drumming. One can explore and execute more sophisticated timing structures and solos, wonderful huh?
Next challenge is to add some vocalisation (chant and song) to the mix; polyrhythmic fun and games with a musical twist!
Getting dexterous and ironing out the rhythmic gristle that binds up our bodies = more freedom for the body and mind.
If you want more, come and study dexterity with me next week!
– Simon.
For more information on Simon’s Dexterity classes, head here!
Video Series covering everything you need to know about tuning your djembe – for beginners.
In Burkina Faso, the landlocked West African nation of funk, nearly all the djembefola play with cow skin as opposed to goat. And they crank their drums!
The sounds are dry but warm in tonal quality and the slaps often have that shade of metallic (though not ringy) edge too them. The balafon and dunun are never far away
This rhythm comes from the Bambara people of Mali. “Foli” comes from the word “fo” which means speak or play of music (e.g. komofoli – music of the komo society). Music is an extension of speech in Mandekan languages and passes down culture, values and tradition
The tama is a small hourglass shaped talking drum from Senegal and Mali.
Check out Petit Madou (from Habib Koite’s band) in action back in 2006. Some of you may recognize the Maraka phrases.