Djembe and dundun rhythms for West African drumming and dance
Drum Study in Guinea, West Africa
The best way to learn West African drumming is . . . (surprise) to go to West Africa. In my experience the best teacher to learn from is Famoudou Konate. Mamady Keita is also an excellent teacher with a more standardized approach. Famoudou's knowledge of the traditional Malinke rhythms is unmatched, and his instruction covers djembe and dunun parts with equal emphasis.
In December-January of 2003-04, I spent a month of study with Famoudou in a group workshop setting; with three weeks at his compound in a neighborhood of Guinea's capital, Conakry, and a week in the rural village, Sangbarala, where Famoudou grew up amid the rich tradition of drum, dance and song.
The following slide shows present images of this unique learning experience of drum culture in Guinea.
Roots Jam 3:
Arrangements for West African Drum & Dance
This all-new collection of rhythms helps you take the next step in playing West African drums for dancers, in a group, or just for fun. Learn basic accompaniment parts, selected bass drum (dunun) and bell patterns and variations, and traditional djembe solos. Roots Jam 3 adds to the previous Roots Jam books in offering complete and cohesive ensemble arrangements for 16 popular dance rhythms. Included are lessons and exercises to help you understand basic downbeat, upbeat and offbeat timing; choose from available bell and clave patterns; and learn both traditional and improvised lead djembe solos. Practice listening to and playing parts with the optional audio CD. Also featured is notation for 27 original compositions by Nowick Gray, with audio tracks on a second CD.
Roots Jam:
Collected Rhythms for Hand Drum and Percussion
This unique resource contains hundreds of rhythms from the African, Latin and rock traditions, along with inspired improvisations. Easy notation, useful for all levels, from beginners to performers. Includes lesson guide, arrangements, popular styles, practice exercises, and a list of other resources. Fully indexed, 80 pages.
Roots Jam 2:
West African and Afro-Latin Drum Rhythms
An updated (2002) and expanded collection of over 125 traditional West African, Afro-Latin, and Middle Eastern rhythms, arranged for ready reference for individual learning or ensemble play. Covers djembe and dunun/bell parts and variations, in box (grid) notation for clear display of timing. Includes unique exercises, generic patterns and in-depth study of polyrhythm. Optional full-length audio CD with 28 demo and practice tracks.
Nowick Gray has been a teacher and writer for over three decades, and a drummer since 1990. He currently teaches and performs with a number of drum and percussion groups in Victoria, B.C.
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